FUNDAMENTALS OF MANAGEMENT

This course is one of the courses that characterize the degree in Economics, and is aimed at providing students an overview on the firm and the key issues related to its management. After an introduction on the methodological foundations and the context of modern firms, the course focuses on the analysis of the environment in which the firm operates, on the analysis of the firm’s competitive advantage, and on the firm’s communication and corporate strategies. The course resumes to explore topics related to the analysis of the external environment and business strategy referred to referred to in the courses of Business Administration and Organization.

After completing the course, students will understand which are the main business functions, which are the main characteristics of a firm’s environment, and what strategies the firm can implement.

For prerequisites, students should refer to their study plan and to the information provided at the webpage https://www.unive.it/web/en/4624/exams

1. Introduction to the firm and theories of the firm
2. The new business ecosystem: sustainability and digital transformations
3. Sectors and competitive analysis: entry barriers and concentration
4. Competitive advantage and strategy
5. Business functions: the value chain and marketing (conventional, unconventional and digital)
6. The firm and the market: understanding demand and consumers
7. Lab activity

Compagno, C., & Raggiotto, F. (2020): Economia e Gestione delle Imprese - Concetti e strumenti. Mc Gray Hill

and course slides (uploaded in Moodle)

Final written exam based on the textbook, slides and class notes

The final exam is a written test consisting of 15 multiple-choice questions (15 minutes, 2 points for each correct answer, -0.5 points for each incorrect answer, and 0 points for unanswered questions).
Students may also improve their final grade by completing an optional group project.
The exam will cover the topics discussed in class (lecture slides and notes) as well as the textbook (all 8 chapters).

written

The instructor is responsible for ensuring the authenticity and originality of all examinations and coursework. In cases of suspected academic misconduct, an additional on-site assessment may be required during the exams, which may differ from the standard format.

A. scores in the 18-22 range will be awarded in the presence of:
- sufficient knowledge and understanding applied in reference to the program;
B. scores in the 23-26 range will be awarded in the presence of:
- fair knowledge and understanding applied in reference to the program;
C. scores in the 27-30 range will be awarded in the presence of:
- good or excellent knowledge and understanding applied in reference to the program;
D. honors will be awarded in the presence of students with the highest score in both the written exam and the laboratory activity.

Lectures and lab activity.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Circular economy, innovation, work" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development