Business Consultancy Project module (BU40012)

You will prepare and complete a project involving either, designing and completing a focused literature-based project (for example: desk-based), or engaging with a practical case/problem-based project drawing on secondary data or data gathered through participative research within a 'live' context.

Designing and delivering a business consultancy project requires you to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of a range of research and analytical skills that apply to the study and practice of business management consulting.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• understand role of a business consultant and how to work with the client to identify an organisational-related problem or issue suitable for exploration
• learn how to draw on concepts in the field of business management along with wider information to critically analyse organisational problems

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• design and implement a research project to address a specific organisational problem
• write an extended and focused piece of work for an organisational audience
• engage in the dynamics of project management, demonstrating ability to reach appropriate conclusions and recommendations on the basis of available information
• critically reflect on your ability to manage personal resources and achieve the project aim
• edit, draft, and present your final project through constant review and responding to feedback from your supervisor

Assignments / assessment

Draft Chapter (10%)

• normally a literature review
• 1,500 words
• due mid-November (semester 1)

Academic poster (10%)

• elevator pitch
• length of pitch: 90-120 seconds
• due early December (semester 1)

Final consultancy report (80%)

• 10,000 words
• due mid-April (semester 2)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

You will be allocated a Supervisor by the end of Week Three, and you will meet with them at regular points throughout both semesters.

There are twice monthly one-hour meetings to provide an additional forum to share your thoughts, questions, ideas, and concerns relating to researching and writing a dissertation. These sessions will also provide opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and sharing of research stories, experiences, solutions, and resolutions to research challenges and problems.

Reminders, signposting, and mini revision lectures - building on material covered in Research Methods & Consultancy Practices (BU30014) 0 will be provided at critical moments throughout both semesters to help you meet the assessment requirements for this module.

For example, when assessment due dates for the literature review chapter (Assessment 1) and poster presentation (Assessment 2) are approaching, sessions offering support in producing effective literature reviews and how to create compelling academic posters will be provided.

Likewise, when the final submission due date (Assessment 3) is approaching, supportive sessions and writing workshops on how to finish, polish, and craft your dissertation will be given.