Module Resources
The University Library and learning resources
Electronic data bases
Module Additional Assessment Details
100% Individual 2000 word assignment. (Business Plan) (Tests All Learning Outcomes)
Module Texts
Burns, P. (2011) Entrepreneurship and Small Business-start-up, growth& maturity, 3rd edition, Palgrave. ISBN 978-0-230-24780-2
Gowthorpe, C. (2003) Business Accounting & Finance for Non-Specialists, 1st Ed, Thomson. ISBN 1-86152-872-8
Hughes, V. & D. Weller (2003) Setting up a Small Business, 3rd Ed, Teach Yourself Guide, Hodder & Stoughton Ltd. ISBN 0-340-85947-4
Module Indicative Content
Overview
This module will engage in the process of a developing a viable business plan for a small business enterprise. The module follows through the successful deployment of a viable business idea from the start-up stages to the day to day management of a small business (as opposed to a large organization). It may focus on :
- The Individual
- Characteristics of the entrepreneur and reasons for small business failure (external & internal factors)
- Business Viability
- Classifications of costs
- Contribution, Break-even analysis and Margin of Safety
- Capital Requirements
- Bank Finance and Services for Small Business, Uses and Sources of Finance including Local/Central Government Initiatives
- Legal Status
- Sole Trader, Partnerships, Limited company, Franchise and Business Names
- Marketing Plan
- Pricing Policy & Unique Selling Proposition, Promoting the Business
- The Business Plan
- The importance, format & preparation of a Business Plan
- The importance, format & preparation of a Cash Flow Forecast
- Understanding The Profit & Loss Account & Balance Sheet
- Interpretation of the Final Accounts including the use of accounting ratios
- Working Capital Management (Control Systems)
Module Learning Strategies
36 hours of tutor led activity (24 hours of formal lectures/large group activity, 12 hours of tutorials)
114 hours of student centred activities involving reading, self assessed exercises, case study analysis, assignment work and revision.