In this course, we will look into some globalstrategy topics such as internationalization and knowledge transfer with theparticular methodological lens of micro-foundations. The micro-foundationsmethodology requires breaking down macro-level phenomena into actions andinteractions at lower levels. In particular, we will investigate howheterogeneity at micro-levels (e.g. in individuals) influence strategicorganizational decisions (e.g. firm boundaries).

In order to understand how theseorganizational-level outcomes emerge, we will use concepts from theorganizational behavior literature (e.g. biases, motivation) as well as fromorganization theory (e.g. behavioral theory of the firm).

The types of questionsthat we will address are:

• How do individual characteristics influenceperceptions of distance and internationalization decisions?
• What are the underlying mechanisms of the linkbetween multi-nationality and firm performance?
• What motivates employees located ingeographically dispersed units to share the knowledge that can lead to a bettercompetitive position of the firm?
• How do biases impact individual decisionsregarding outsourcing/offshoring strategies?
• What motivates subsidiary managers to developinitiatives?
• How do biases influence the process of globalinnovation?

Knowledge and Understanding

• Knowledge and understanding of the microfoundations of global strategy
• Understanding of the role individuals play on organizational-level outcomes across different markets
• Familiarity with many examples of key research on the topic of micro-foundations of global strategy

Cognitive and Subject Specific Skills

• Ability to understand the goals, structure and content of scientific articles
• Ability to analyze global strategic problems by breaking down a macro phenomenon into micro phenomena
• Ability to think through cause-effect relationships and critically assess common management principles

Key Skills

• The ability to rapidly structure ideas and presentations both as individuals and as members of a team
• Organizational skills in relation to teamwork, presentation and writing skills
• Ability to understand /develop scientific research: beneficial for the bachelor/master thesis

Overall, students will be assessed on:

•    Their knowledge of the basic concepts of micro-foundations of global strategy

•    Their ability to understand and critically discuss academic research

•    Their analytical skills when solving management cases

•    The quality of the presentations and oral contributions

The final grade will be based on the following elements:

Group Level (70%)

•    Presentation of a scientific article (10%)

•    Case study presentation (30%)

•    Case study presentation (30%)

Individual Level (30%)

•    Participation in class (30%)