Time Schedule:
Steven D. Murch
MGMT 521
Seattle Campus
Examines how innovative firms often experience rapid and disruptive levels of growth and change and how without effective management of new technologies, the boom can quickly turn to bust. Investigates the micro-economic drivers of competition in technology industries, explores how technological change affects competition, and examines the implications for competitive strategy. Offered: WSp.
Class description
Innovation is perhaps commerce’s most powerful and visible force. Every day, enterprises are being created, destroyed and reshaped by improvements in both product and process, generated from without and within.
Innovation and successful technology management are crucial sources of competitive advantage, economic growth, and wealth creation.
This course explores the dynamics of technology-based innovation and its management from multiple angles. Topics include competitive strategy, resource allocation, technical and strategic leadership, platform leadership, organizational design, the new product life cycle, and entrepreneurship.
It is particularly applicable for those who work in settings where the need to develop, launch and manage technical products, services or processes is paramount.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Case-based instruction with one midterm and a final project.
Recommended preparation
The course consists primarily of classroom case analysis, discussion and debate.
The cases present a broad range of situations relating to the management technology and innovation, and also serve as a backdrop to introduce, apply and test relevant frameworks. Where possible, external speakers will also join us to share their perspective on the issues raised by the case.
I place heavy emphasis on active, thoughtful classroom participation.
What does that mean? All students are expected to have completed each session’s readings, and have prepared an analysis of the issues raised in each case without exception. In evaluating classroom participation, I look for students who clearly articulate their analysis, back up their views with any relevant facts, and move the analysis forward. This does not mean offering blanket agreement or “chip shots”. Not participating is not an option; you should expect to be called on throughout each class session.
Class assignments and grading
• Class participation 35% • Midterm exam 25% • Group project 40%
