BUSI 1703 COIN4

Introduction to Business

Introduces students to various structures of business, industry, and organizations, the influence of external factors on organizations, the interrelationship with society, the functional areas of business, and the role of managers. This is done from a historical perspective, understanding how business and our market system have developed over time, and how philosophies and ideologies have influenced businesses development.

Instructor: Martha Cheney
Prerequisites:
None
Course Type: Online; Continuous-intake. Register anytime and learn at your own pace


This is a broad overview course that introduces key concepts of doing business in Canada and globally by evaluating the main challenges in both profit and not for profit organizations. We examine the managerial process (vision, decision making, form of organization, and leadership), strategic analysis (scanning the external and internal environments), and the main functional areas. Key analytic tools (SWOT, environmental scanning, Decision Matrix, and financial analysis) are explored to show the interdependencies of these areas. Learning is assessed with chapter quizzes, video case scenarios and application quizzes, mini assignments, written reports, and micro-simulations of key functional areas. You will investigate current events to solve business problems and further develop competencies in analysis, communication, and self-management skills that enhance employability.

This comprehensive course has three modules:

  1. Framework (global aspects, ethics, entrepreneurship, forms of ownership, and understanding management)
  2. Adding Value with People and Processes (flexible organizations, human resources, operations, sustainability in operations, and IT)
  3. Understanding Customers and Finance for Competitive Advantage (marketing, accounting, and finance)

Personalized benefits from taking this course include:

  1. an improved understand of the significance of small business and entrepreneurship in Canada and globally, with an appreciation for your personal aptitude for entrepreneurship.
  2. how to apply business concepts, databases, and current events to analyze business situations.
  3. evaluating a personalized mini case in which you create a personal budget plan and evaluate the Canadian housing market.
  4. self-reflection to determine area(s) of interest for future study and career planning.