The University Library and learning resources
Electronic data bases such as Athens and EBSCO

The learning strategy of this module requires students to commit 300 learning hours comprising 48 hours of class support and 252 hours of independent and self directed study.

As guidance, students may typically be expected to allocate the hours indicated below to the following activities during independent and self-directed study time; reading and preparation for lectures (64); work based learning (64); additional research & reading (24); preparation of coursework assignments (100).

Action Learning Sets will be utilised, as part of the independent learning time, where students will have the opportunity to look at the real problems which concern them, rather than considering hypothetical ones. They will also enable students to make commitments to action which they would not necessarily be in a position to do after having listened to a lecture or seminar, or as an individual working in isolation.

The aim of the module is to equip students with skills and awareness of the application of business theory for managing small and medium sized business's.

Part 1 - Running the Business
Development and management of SMEs through analysis of performance, managing by objectives, and planning their implementation.
Development of strengths and opportunities, recognising competences and improving business performance.
Identifying the 'red tape' eg. the law, regulations, industry standards
Developing contact networks such as Business Link, Chamber of Commerce, mentoring.
Professional advice and outsourcing.
Auditing resources (including intangibles).
Using business plans.
Exporting.
Ethics and environmental issues.

Part 2 - Small Business Operations
Comparison of performance (over time and industry) to judge efficiency and effectiveness.
Solving problems and risk handling.
Quality (including ISO 9000) and service.
Awareness of financial tools and techniques, eg. Excel, Sage.
Stock control.
Energy management.

A Report on the process of running a business and monitoring its performance against business plan projections, including details of modifications and any necessary remedial action. (2800 words) (70%) (LOs 1 - 3)

A Reflective Journal detailing the process of managing and running a business (1200 words) (30%) (LO 4)

Stokes, D. (2002). Small Business Management Thomson Learning
Carter, C. & Jones-Evans, D. (2002) Enterprise and Small Business: Principles, Practice & Policy Pearson
Storey, D. J. (2001). Understanding the Small Business Sector. Thomson Learning
Slack, N. et al (2003), Operations Management FT/Prentice Hall