GSBGEN 354 / 01 - Globalization Strategies

Instructor(s):
George Foster

Meeting Times:

MTH

8:00 AM-9:45 AM

THORNT110

Units: 4

Course Description:
This course examines the planning and execution of globalization strategies of (a) startups and SME's (small to medium-sized enterprises), and (b) larger firms. The challenges of "going global" can be very daunting; especially in ventures where resource constraints are severe. Yet, the opportunities from expanding beyond a local arena can be sufficiently large to warrant a sizable commitment of resources. The five keys are: 1. THE WHY-Pivotal importance of understanding diverse motivations for globalization. 2. THE WHEN-Going Too Late versus Going Too Early Trade-offs. 3. THE HOW TO GO GLOBAL-Comparison of Greenfield expansion versus joint ventures versus franchising versus acquisitions. Also use of direct versus indirect sales approaches. 4. THE WHERE TO GO GLOBAL- Comparison of day 0 global rollout versus country-by-country roll-out. Approaches used to prioritize sequence of country-by-country markets to enter. 5. THE WITH WHOM-Use of quality partners to turbo-speed global reach. 6. CUTURAL/ECONOMIC/POLITICAL DIFFERENCES-benefits/costs of localization versus upside of global execution/global brands. The general format for each class is a case discussion and linkage to an overall evolving conceptual framework. At about 80% of the sessions, there will be a class guest who will co-teach the session. Cases are drawn from multiple parts of the globe as well as across multiple types of industries. The grading is based on 2 case write-ups, a group project, and class participation. (Foster)

Appropriateness:	MBA, Sloan, & PhD Students
Attendance:	Mandatory Attendance Absences will impact grade
Capacity:	Limited to 46 GSB, 20 Non-GSB
Certificate Program:	GMP certificate course
Cross Listed Courses:	Cross-listed as MS&E 278
Exams:	No Exam
Grade Distribution:	Participation 20% Projects/Papers 80%
Mode of Instruction:	Case discussion
Pass/Fail option:	P/F Allowed with Permission of Instructor
Prerequisites:	Pre-req ACCT 210
Projects or Papers:	2 Group Project/Paper