Introduction to Business Management

Introduction course.

The curricular unit will feature theoretical-practical classes, trying to combine the expository dimension of the topics with the necessary practical examples, where the teacher and the students will present and discuss the resolution of various real-life cases. The use of pedagogical tools and audiovisual resources and contact with companies also contributes to all OA (OA1 to OA7), as it provides a clearer understanding of concepts and practical application in real contexts, helping with direct observation and practical analysis of the topics covered. Contact with real cases is also promoted through contact with companies where information is collected and analyzed on the topics taught and discussed in class.

The aim is for students to apply the fundamental concepts of management, acquire a global vision of what a company is and how it works, the role of management and the instruments for its success. Understand how a company can interact with its surroundings and affect its future development.

The learning objectives (LO) are:

LO1. Describe the organizational environment;

LO2. Describe the functions of management and understand the dynamics of the management process;

LO3. Identify the critical business functions in any organization, with emphasis on: innovation, human resources and marketing;

LO4. Apply concepts and tools that fall within the scope of the various management and business functions;

LO5. List and describe different types of strategies and apply strategic analysis and control tools.

1. Management and managers

1.1 Fundamentals of management

1.2 The organization and its environment

1.3 Evolution of management thought

2. Management tasks

2.1 Planning

2.2 Organizing

2.3 Leadership and motivation

2.4 Control

3. Business functions

3.1 Innovation

3.2 Human Resources

3.3. Marketing

3.4 Finance

3.5 Operations

4. Strategy

4.1 Strategy analysis

4.2 Strategy options

4.3 Strategy action

Students may choose between the following two alternative assessment methods.

Their choice must be communicated to the lecturer within the first two weeks of classes.

Failure to do so will be interpreted as opting for the final examination.

Option 1 - Final Examination

A final examination will be held in accordance with the Institute's academic regulations.

A minimum grade of 10 out of 20 is required to pass.

No oral examination will be held.

Option 2 - Continuous Assessment

20% - Individual assignment (Curriculum Vitae and cover letter for a first job application)
20% - Group case study analysis
20% - Group organizational diagnosis
40% - Two individual tests

The final grade will be calculated as the average of the five assessment components, weighted as indicated above.

To pass under this assessment method, students must obtain a minimum grade of 8 out of 20 in each assessment component and an overall final grade of at least 10 out of 20.

The schedule for the tests, assignment submissions, and presentations will be announced during the first week of classes.

NAO