Overview
As the Christian leaders of tomorrow, both in the church and in business, it is important that our students have a strong understanding of what it means to lead and manage. Business Management examines the ways in which people at various levels within a business organisation manage resources to achieve the objectives of the organisation. The study recognises that there is a range of management theories. In each unit, students examine some of these theories and through exposure to real business scenarios and direct contact with business, compare them with management in practice.
Content
Businesses of all sizes are major contributors to the economic and social wellbeing of a nation. Therefore, how businesses are formed and the fostering of conditions under which new business ideas can emerge are vital for a nation’s wellbeing. Taking a business idea and planning how to make it a reality are the cornerstones of economic and social development. In this unit students explore the factors affecting business ideas and the internal and external environments within which businesses operate and the effect of these on planning a business.
UNIT 1: PLANNING A BUSINESS AREAS OF STUDY
The Business Idea
In this area of study students investigate how business ideas are created and how conditions can be fostered for new business ideas to emerge. New business ideas are formed through a range of sources, such as identifying a gap in the market, technological developments and changing customer needs. Students explore some of the issues that need to be considered before a business can be established.
External Environment
The external environment consists of all elements outside a business that may act as pressures or forces on the operations of a business. Students consider factors from the external environment such as legal, political, social, economic, technological, global and corporate social responsibility factors and the effects these may have on the decisions made when planning a business. Students investigate how the internal environment relates to the external environment and the effects of this relationship on planning a business.
Internal Environment
The internal environment affects the approach to and success of business planning. The owner will generally have more control over the activities, functions and pressures that occur within a business. These factors, such as business models, legal business structures and staffing, will also be influenced to some extent by the external environment. Students explore the factors within the internal environment and consider how planning decisions may have an effect on the ultimate success of a business.
UNIT 2: ESTABLISHING A BUSINESS AREAS OF STUDY
Legal requirements And Financial Considerations
It is essential to deal with legal and financial matters when establishing a business. In this area of study students are introduced to the legal requirements and financial considerations that are vital to establishing a business. They also consider the implications for the business if these requirements are not met.
Marketing a Business
Establishing a strong customer base for a business is an important component of success. In this area of study students develop their understanding that marketing encompasses a wide range of management practices, from identifying the needs of the target market and establishing a brand presence, through to considerations on price, product features and packaging, promotion, place, people, physical evidence and processes. They also consider effective public relations strategies and the benefits and costs these can bring to a business.
Staffing a Business
Staff are one of the business’s greatest assets and are an important consideration when establishing a business. The quantity and quality of staff has a direct link to business productivity and the achievement of business objectives. In this area of study students examine the staffing requirements that will meet the needs and objectives of the business and contribute to productivity and effectiveness. They research the processes undertaken by the business with relation to the recruitment, selection and induction of staff. Students consider the opportunities that the skills and capabilities of staff can contribute to the business, the legal obligations that must be addressed and the relationship between employers and employees within a business.
Biblical Perspective
Biblical leadership principles are examined as students consider the application of management styles and skills to their own lives and to possible careers in a business environment. In addition, students will evaluate social responsibility and ethics in examining change in large organisations. The application of conflict resolution strategies (see Matt 18:15 and 1 Corinthians 6) will be considered. God has created us to be in relationship both with Himself and with our fellow human beings. Therefore, students must consider how strong, Christ-centred relationships can be developed and maintained as an integral part of harmonious interactions within the business organisation.
Assessment Units 1 & 2
Assessment Unit 1