Business Development 1 – What is a business?

Course Overview

This is the first module of the course Business Development. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the key functions of a business, from procurement and operations to marketing and digitalization. Students will gain a foundational understanding of how businesses operate within their environments, how they create value through supply chains, and how strategic decisions impact competitiveness. The course also explores emerging trends such as AI and Big Data, highlighting their role in modern business management.

Course content:

The Business Environment

1. Introduction and supply chain
2. Porter’s Model

Procurement

4. Purchasing portfolio models
5. Sourcing strategies

Operations

6. Lean Management
7. Production Systems Classification

Logistics

8. Distribution Strategy and Channels
9. Inventory and Management

Marketing

10. Segmentation
11. Targeting and Positioning

Digitalization

12. Introduction to Digital
13. Artificial Intelligence and Big Data