Analysis of Business Problems

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/analysis-business-problem-iese

Introduction

### Course Review: Analysis of Business Problems **Course Overview** "Analysis of Business Problems" is a culminating course on Coursera designed for those who have been exploring the complexities of managerial decision-making throughout their specialization. This course features the real-world dilemma faced by GAS GAS, an off-road motorcycle manufacturer, as it grapples with the decision to collaborate with KTM, raising the critical question of whether this partnership will enhance long-term brand sustainability and profitability or become a liability. With a hands-on approach, learners will utilize the six-step Analysis of Business Problems (ABP) methodology developed by IESE Business School to dissect and address this pressing issue. The practical application of course concepts through the lens of a real-world scenario makes this course particularly valuable. **Syllabus Breakdown** 1. **Week 1: Analysis of Business Problems - Capstone Introduction** The course kicks off with an introduction to the six-step ABP methodology which is a robust framework for effective decision-making in business. This foundational week emphasizes the importance of recognizing the multifaceted nature of business problems and prepares participants for the complex decision-making tasks ahead. By understanding the methodology, learners are better equipped to tackle the GAS GAS dilemma. 2. **Week 2: GAS GAS Marketing Problem** Delving into the marketing dimensions of GAS GAS, learners will analyze the implications of partnering with KTM. This week focuses on consumer perception, branding consequences, and pricing strategy. Students are expected to leverage their marketing insights to provide sound advice to Ramon Puente, the CEO. This practical application solidifies the connection between marketing theory and real-world impact, making the learning experience engaging and relevant. 3. **Week 3: GAS GAS Finance Problem** In the third week, the course shifts focus to the financial ramifications of the decision at hand. Students will dissect GAS GAS's historical financial performance and current standing while assessing how a collaboration with KTM affects funding, working capital, and sustainable growth. The course effectively emphasizes financial concepts, ensuring learners can analyze the financial landscape to inform their recommendations. 4. **Week 4: GAS GAS Organizational Behavior Problem** The final analytical lens focuses on organizational behavior, emphasizing the human element in business decisions. Participants will examine the board dynamics and the impact of decisions on employees. By applying concepts learned in organizational behavior, students can help Ramon Puente consider the vital team aspects and employee implications of the decision—highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to problem-solving. **Conclusion and Course Takeaways** The course culminates in a conclusive question that integrates all the lessons learned throughout the weeks. By applying the knowledge gained from different disciplines—marketing, finance, and organizational behavior—learners will arrive at a well-rounded recommendation for GAS GAS. **Recommendation** I wholeheartedly recommend the "Analysis of Business Problems" course on Coursera for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of managerial decision-making in a real-world context. It presents a unique opportunity to utilize theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, making it perfect for aspiring managers and professionals looking to refine their analytical skills. The structured approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of how to weigh diverse factors when making critical business decisions. Whether you’re already in the business field or looking to enhance your skill set, this course is an invaluable addition to your professional development journey.

Syllabus

Course Overview and Week 1-Analysis of Business Problems: Capstone

Welcome! Before you start today's videos, please have a look at the syllabus. In this first session, I’ll introduce you to IESE’s six-step Analysis of Business Problems (ABP) methodology. This methodology is a very useful tool to help managers in their principal responsibility: making decisions. Because most business problems involve financial, technical and human issues, they are by nature complex. No matter how much thought you put into it, there is no “correct solution” and certainly no guarantee that your decision will yield the desired outcomes. Learning this six-step methodology is therefore a great help to many mangers as they take on their decision-making challenges, such as the one that GAS GAS faces. Objectives: To give learners a relevant and effective tool to make managerial decisions.

Now that you understand a bit of the history of GAS GAS, it’s time to analyze the situation from a marketing perspective. The decision to manufacture bikes for KTM will undoubtedly have an impact on consumers, branding, pricing and channels. Will that impact be positive or negative? Are the risks worth the long-term benefit? What should the CEO take into consideration when making a decision? By the end of the session you should have enough information to advise Ramon Puente about the relevant marketing issues. Objective: To apply the marketing concepts acquired in Marketing: Understanding Your Customers in order to evaluate and make a decision about GAS GAS.

In this session, we will evaluate GAS GAS’ history and current situation and discuss the potential financial effect of partnering with KTM. After looking at some of the concepts we discussed in Module 3 - need of funds for operations (NFO), working capital (WC), sustainable growth and more – the learner will be able to understand how the financial outlook will influence the ultimate decision. Objective: To apply the financial concepts acquired in Operational Finance: Building a Robust Business in order evaluate the GAS GAS problem from a financial perspective.

All business decisions have a direct impact on people. So that the board makes the best decision possible, it is important to examine whether they have the most effective tools at their disposal from an Organization Behavior perspective. Who are the people on the board and how well do they work together as a team? Whatever they decide will affect GAS GAS employees. This is a critical consideration for leadership to take into account as they weigh the financial and marketing issues you have already discussed. Objective: To apply the organizational behavior concepts acquired in Organizational Behavior: Managing People in order to evaluate and help Ramon Puente make a decision about GAS GAS.