level 4 diploma (qcf) - mandatory units · business management - level 4 diploma (qcf) management...

Level 4 Diploma (QCF) - Mandatory Units

Learners must complete ALL units within this section

Business Management - Level 4 Diploma (QCF)

Management Theories and Practice (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes

After successfully completing this unit, the learner will:

1. Understand management theories

2. Understand the difference between management and leadership

3. Understand the roles and responsibilities of managers

4. Understand the traits/characteristics needed to be an effective manager

Assessment and Grading Criteria

In order to pass this unit, the evidence that the learner presents for assessment needs to demonstrate that

they can meet all of the learning outcomes for the unit. The assessment criteria describe the level of

achievement required to meet the learning outcomes.


Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria

To achieve a PASS grade the

evidence must show that the

learner can:

To achieve a MERIT grade

the evidence must show that,

in addition to the pass

criteria, the learner can:

To achieve a DISTINCTION

grade the evidence must

show that, in addition to

the pass and merit criteria,

the learner can:

1. Understand

management theories

1.1 Identify key management

theorists

1.2 Critically compare

different management

theories

1.3 Evaluate the effectiveness

of different theories

Evaluate the effectiveness of

different theories showing a

good understanding of the

merits and drawbacks of

different theories

Evaluate the effectiveness

of different theories

showing a detailed

understanding of the merits

and drawbacks of different

theories

2. Understand the

difference between

management and

leadership

2.1 Differentiate between

managing and leading

2.2 Critically compare the

characteristics and

function of managers and

leaders

3. Understand the roles

and responsibilities of

managers

3.1 Analyse the roles and

responsibilities of

managers

Analyse the roles and

responsibilities of managers

referring to the different

levels of management and

their corresponding levels of

responsibility

Analyse the roles and

responsibilities of managers

detailing the different levels

of management and their

corresponding levels of

responsibility

3.2 Analyse the roles played

by managers within

strategic decision making

Analyse the roles played by

managers within strategic

decision making showing an

understanding of the

different decision making

processes undertaken by

different individuals

Analyse the roles played by

managers within strategic

decision making showing

an detailed understanding

of the different decision

making processes

undertaken by different

individuals

3.3 Analyse the ways in which

a manager can influence

and motivate staff

Analyse the ways in which a

manager can influence and

motivate staff drawing from

relevant theories to support

conclusions

Analyse the ways in which

a manager can influence

and motivate staff using

management theories and

examples to support

conclusions

3.4 Analyse how a manager

can assess and review

staff performance and

training requirements

4. Understand the

traits/characteristics

needed to be an

effective manager

4.1 Analyse the different skills

and characteristics that

an effective manager

should possess

Analyse the different skills

and characteristics that an

effective manager should

possess using examples to

support the depth and

breadth of the analysis

Analyse the different skills

and characteristics that an

effective manager should

possess using examples to

fully to support the depth

and breadth of the analysis

and conclusions drawn

4.2 Evaluate the importance

of self management to

being an effective

manager


Financial Analysis and Planning (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the importance of analysing financial information

2. Understand the importance of budgeting and monitoring finances

3. Understand sources of finance and their importance






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:

To achieve a MERIT grade the

evidence must show that, in

addition to the pass criteria,

the learner can:



show that, in addition to the

pass and merit criteria, the

learner can:

1. Understand the

importance of analysing

financial information

1.1 Explain the importance of

analysing financial

information

1.2 Discuss the different

financial analysis

techniques used and their

applications

Discuss the different financial

analysis techniques used and

their applications showing an

understanding of when they

are best applied

Discuss the different financial

analysis techniques used and

their applications showing a

very clear understanding of

when they are best applied

1.3 Perform a financial

analysis calculation


accounting software

packages available and

how these are used to

analyse financial

information

2. Understand the

importance of budgeting

and monitoring finances

2.1 Analyse the importance of

planning and budgeting

2.2 Discuss the considerations

that need to be taken into

account when planning a

budget


monitoring the budget

and any variances that

may occur

Analyse the importance of

monitoring the budget and

any variances that may

occur, giving consideration to

the different factors that can

have an impact on budgets

Analyse in detail the

importance of monitoring the

budget and any variances

that may occur, addressing

the significance of the

different factors that can

have an impact on budgets

3. Understand sources of

finance and their

importance

3.1 Critically compare and

contrast the various

sources of finance

available to an

organisation

Critically compare and

contrast the various sources of

finance available to an

organisation showing a clear


strengths, weaknesses and

implications of each form of

finance

Critically compare and

contrast the various sources of

finance available to an

organisation showing a

detailed understanding of the

strengths, weaknesses and

implications of each form of

finance

3.2 Evaluate how an

organisation depends on

various sources of

financial support


Operations Management (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the interrelationship between the different business functions

2. Understand the relationship between operations and the supply chain

3. Understand how to manage operations






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





the learner can:

1. Understand the

interrelationship

between the different

business functions

1.1 Identify the different

business functions and

their roles

1.2 Analyse the

interrelationship between

the different business

functions

1.3 Examine how the

interrelationship of

business functions help

enhance business success

Examine how the

interrelationship of business

functions help enhance

business success using

examples to illustrate the

answer

Examine in detail how the

interrelationship of business

functions help enhance


examples to illustrate the

answer

2. Understand the

relationship between

operations and the

supply chain

2.1 Evaluate the models of,

and approaches to,

operational management

Evaluate the models of, and

approaches to, operational

management addressing the

key strengths and weaknesses

of the different approaches

Evaluate the models of,

and approaches to,

operational management

addressing in detail the

key strengths and

weaknesses of the

different approaches

2.2 Analyse the supply chain’s

role in the operations

function

2.3 Evaluate how an

operations manager

utilises the supply chain

3. Understand how to

manage operations

3.1 Analyse how operations

can be managed

efficiently and effectively

Analyse how operations can

be managed efficiently and

effectively discussing the

advantages and

disadvantages of the


Analyse how operations

can be managed

efficiently and effectively

discussing in detail the

advantages and

disadvantages of the


3.2 Examine how an

organisation continuously

reviews its operations

function to maintain

efficiency and quality

Examine how an organisation

continuously review its

operations function to

maintain efficiency and

quality demonstrating a good


processes

Examine how an

organisation continuously

review its operations

function to maintain

efficiency and quality

demonstrating an

excellent understanding of

the processes

Business Management - Level 4 Diploma

Quality Management (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the purpose of quality management

2. Understand how to benchmark, measure and improve quality standards

3. Understand the ways in which quality is linked to business






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:




the pass and merit


1. Understand the purpose

of quality management

1.1 Define ‘quality

management’

1.2 Analyse the benefits and

drawbacks that a quality

management system

provides to an

organisation


benchmark, measure

and improve quality

standards

2.1 Analyse the quality

benchmarks that

organisations can use

2.2 Analyse how and why

organisations measure

quality standards

Analyse how and why

organisations measure quality

standards using examples to

illustrate the concept

Analyse in detail how and

why organisations

measure quality standards

using examples to


2.3 Analyse how and why an

organisation strives to

continuously improve

quality standards

3. Understand the ways in

which quality is linked to

business

3.1 Discuss how quality is

linked to the different

business functions

Discuss how quality is linked to

the different business

functions demonstrating a

developed understating of

the different quality checks

that apply specifically to

each

Discuss how quality is

linked to the different

business functions

demonstrating an

thorough understating of

the different quality

checks that apply

specifically to each

3.2 Discuss the factors that

could prompt a quality

review

Discuss the factors that could

prompt a quality review,

touching on the implications

of not conducting quality

reviews

Discuss the factors that

could prompt a quality

review, explaining the

implications of not

conducting quality

reviews

3.3 Analyse how and why

quality management

promotes business success

Discuss how and why quality

management promotes


examples to support

conclusions

Discuss in detail how and

why quality management

promotes business success

using examples to support

conclusions

Level 4 Diploma (QCF) - Optional Units

Learners must complete ONE unit from within this section


Business Structure, Culture and Ethics (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand organisational structures and cultures

2. Understand organisational ethics

3. Understand the relationship between culture, ethics and business success






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





the learner can:

1. Understand

organisational structures

and cultures

1.1 Discuss the key models

and theories that reflect


and cultures

Discuss the key models and

theories that reflect

organisational structures and

cultures using examples to


Discuss the key models

and theories that reflect


and cultures using

examples to effectively

support the concept

1.2 Analyse how an

organisation’s structure

can influence its culture

and subsequently the

behaviour of

management, employees

and teams

Analyse how an

organisation’s structure can

influence its culture and

subsequently the behaviour

of employees and teams

showing insight into the

rationale as to why this may

occur

Analyse how an

organisation’s structure

can influence its culture

and subsequently the

behaviour of employees

and teams showing

detailed insight into the

rationale as to why this

may occur

1.3 Analyse the importance

for organisations to have

an adaptable business

culture and the factors

that may influence these

changes

2. Understand

organisational ethics


ethical conduct to

organisations and their

individuals


ethical conduct to


individuals highlighting the

impact that ethics can have

on organisations


ethical conduct to


individuals showing a

detailed understanding of

the impact that ethics can

have on organisations

2.2 Analyse codes of ethics

and how they can

influence organisational

conduct

3. Understand the

relationship between

culture, ethics and

business success

3.1 Analyse the

interrelationship between

an organisation’s culture

and ethics

3.2 Evaluate the extent to

which an organisation’s

culture and ethical

conduct can enhance its

business success

Evaluate the extent to which

an organisation’s culture and

ethical conduct can

enhance its business success

using examples to support

arguments

Evaluate the extent to

which an organisation’s

culture and ethical

conduct can enhance its


examples to support strong

arguments and

conclusions


Marketing Management (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand marketing principles

2. Understand how to research and analyse markets

3. Understand different marketing strategies

4. Understand how to plan a marketing strategy






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand marketing

principles

1.1 Explain the key marketing

terms and their

applications


research and analyse

markets

2.1 Analyse the differences

between primary and

secondary market

research

Analyse the differences

between primary and

secondary market research

demonstrating an

understanding how and when

each form of research is

applicable/necessary

Analyse the differences

between primary and

secondary market research

demonstrating a detailed

understanding how and when

each form of research is

applicable/necessary

2.2 Evaluate the need to

understand consumer

behaviour and market

demand and how these

are analysed

Evaluate the need to

understand consumer


demand and how these are

analysed using appropriate

models to support conclusions

Evaluate the need to

understand consumer


demand and how these are

analysed using appropriate

models to support detailed

conclusions

3. Understand different

marketing strategies

3.1 Explain the need for

establishing and

developing an

organisation’s marketing

strategy

Explain the need for

establishing and developing

an organisation’s marketing

strategy showing an

understanding of the different

models that can be applied

to this process

Explain the need for

establishing and developing

an organisation’s marketing

strategy showing a detailed

understanding of the different

models that can be applied

to this process

3.2 Analyse how a product or

service is marketed to

various target markets

3.3 Analyse how an

organisation enters new

markets and the types of

differentiation and

extension strategies it can

employ

4. Understand how to plan a

marketing strategy

4.1 Evaluate the importance

of branding, packaging,

placement, product

portfolio and effective

advertising

Evaluate the importance of

branding, packaging,

placement, product portfolio

and effective advertising

showing an understanding of

the factors which can affect

them

Evaluate the importance of

branding, packaging,

placement, product portfolio

and effective advertising

showing a clear and detailed

understanding of the factors

which can affect them

4.2 Explain how channels of

distribution can be

managed effectively and

efficiently

4.3 Analyse how an


resource can be

effectively managed


Principles of Human Resource Management (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the principles of management and leadership

2. Understand the principles of team building

3. Understand the provisions and implications of employment law

4. Understand the role of intermediaries in the context of human resource management






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand the principles

of management and

leadership

1.1 Explain the theories

underpinning modern

management and

leadership

Analyse the key points of a

range of management and

leadership theories and

models

Use theoretical models to

underpin discussion of the

nature of management and

leadership

1.2 Assess the suitability of

different management

and leadership styles in

different types of

organisation

1.3 Characterise the skills and

attributes of effective

leaders

1.4 Evaluate the application

of motivational theories in

context of human

resource management

Analyse comprehensively the

way that influences on

individuals’ behaviour affect

their motivation

Evaluate the interrelationship

between motivation,

effective management and

personal effectiveness,

substantiating views with

examples

1.5 Analyse the connections

between motivation and

the psychological

contract

2. Understand the principles

of team building

2.1 Assess the features of

effective teams

2.2 Examine the development

of groups and group

development models

Analyse the key points and

development of a range of

group development models

Use theoretical models to

underpin discussion of the

usefulness of group

development models

2.3 Examine the concept of

group dynamics and the

factors that influence

group cohesion

3. Understand the provisions

and implications of

employment law

3.1 Analyse the scope of

national and international

employment law


way in which national and

international employment law

affects employers and

employees, illustrating views

with examples

3.2 Assess the implications for

an organisation of equal

opportunities and diversity

legislation

3.3 Analyse the implications

for an organisation of

ethical management

4. Understand the role of

intermediaries in the

context of human

resource management

4.1 Explain the role and

evolution of trades unions

and employee

representatives


reasons for the evolution of

trades unions and employee

representatives and their role,

illustrating views with

examples

Discuss the value of trades

unions and employee

representatives to individuals

and to a business,

substantiating views with

evidence

4.2 Assess the rights and

obligations of employees

and employers

4.3 Explain the role and

process of employment

tribunals


Unit 1 - Business Strategy and Planning (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the purpose of business strategy and planning

2. Understand the internal and external factors that affect strategic business planning

3. Understand how planning models are used and applied

4. Understand how to implement, monitor and manage a strategic business plan






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





the learner can:

1. Understand the purpose

of business strategy and

planning


business strategy and

planning

1.2 Evaluate the different

types of strategies that

organisations employ to

meet their business

objectives

Evaluate the different types of

strategies that organisations

employ to meet their business

objectives addressing the

desired effects of these

strategies

Evaluate the different

types of strategies that

organisations employ to

meet their business

objectives addressing in

detail the desired effects

of these strategies

2. Understand the internal

and external factors that

affect strategic business

planning

2.1 Analyse the internal

factors that affect

strategic business

planning

Analyse the internal factors

that affect strategic business

planning demonstrating an

appreciation of the leverage

that different components

hold

Analyse the internal factors

that affect strategic

business planning


appreciation of the

leverage that different

components hold

2.2 Analyse the external

factors that affect

strategic business

planning

Analyse the external factors

that affect strategic business

planning demonstrating an

appreciation of the effect

that each factor can

potentially have on an

organisation

Analyse the external

factors that affect

strategic business planning


appreciation of the effect

that each factor can

potentially have on an

organisation

3. Understand how

planning models are

used and applied

3.1 Critically compare

different planning models

and their application

3.2 Explain how the data

yielded from planning

models influence and

determine the strategy

chosen

Explain how the data yielded

from planning models

influence and determine the

strategy chosen using

examples

Explain in detail how the

data yielded from

planning models influence

and determine the

strategy chosen using

examples


implement, monitor and

manage a strategic

business plan

4.1 Explain how organisations

can effectively implement

a strategic business plan

4.2 Explain how an

organisation monitors and

manages the

implemented strategic

business plan


Unit 2 - Leadership (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the role that leaders fulfil and the different leadership styles

2. Understand leadership theory

3. Understand the factors that can influence leadership style

4. Understand how leaders create and maintain successful teams






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:




the pass and merit


1. Understand the role that

leaders fulfil and the

different leadership styles

1.1 Critically compare the role

of leaders and managers

1.2 Analyse the different

leadership styles

Analyse the different

leadership styles using

examples to support

arguments

Analyse the different

leadership styles using

examples in an engaging

way to support arguments

2. Understand leadership

theory

2.1 Evaluate the different

leadership theories

2.2 Analyse how theories can

shape leadership styles

Perform a comparative

analysis on how theories can

shape leadership styles

Perform a comparative

analysis on how theories

can shape leadership

styles demonstrating a

well rounded


theories discussed

3. Understand the factors

that can influence

leadership style

3.1 Analyse how the makeup

of the team can influence

the leadership style

adopted

Analyse how the makeup of

the team can influence the

leadership style adopted

showing insight into how

effective leaders tailor their

roles according to the people

in their team

Analyse how the makeup

of the team can influence

the leadership style

adopted showing an

informed insight into how

and why effective leaders

tailor their roles according

to the people in their

team

3.2 Analyse how the hierarchy

within an organisation can

influence the leadership

style adopted

4. Understand how leaders

create and maintain

successful teams

4.1 Analyse how effective

leadership can create

successful teams

Analyse how effective


successful teams using

theories to demonstrate an

understanding of the function

of this relationship

Analyse how effective


successful teams using

theories to demonstrate a


the function of this

relationship

4.2 Explain how leaders can

continue to help, support

and develop teams

through effective

leadership

4.3 Analyse how leaders can

administrate and

coordinate organisational

changes


Customer Relationship Management (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand customer relationship management (CRM) processes

2. Understand how organisations’ objectives can influence the CRM processes employed

3. Understand how to measure and manage CRM processes






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





the learner can:

1. Understand customer

relationship

management (CRM)

processes

1.1 Explain the various types

of CRM

1.2 Explain the need for, and

the benefits of,

organisations having

effective CRM processes

Explain the need for, and the

benefits of, organisations

having effective CRM

processes using examples to

illustrate their answer

Explain in detail the need

for, and the benefits of,

organisations having

effective CRM processes

using examples to illustrate

their answer

2. Understand how

organisations’ objectives

can influence the CRM

processes employed

2.1 Explain how business

strategies and objectives

can influence and inform

decisions within the CRM

process

Explain how business

strategies and objectives can

influence and inform

decisions within the CRM

process showing an

appreciation of the

relationship between CRM

processes and business


Explain in detail how

business strategies and

objectives can influence

and inform decisions within

the CRM process showing

a developed


relationship between CRM

processes and business


2.2 Identify the strengths and

weaknesses organisations

consider when reviewing

their CRM processes to

improve performance

and objectives


measure and manage

CRM processes

3.1 Discuss why it is important

for organisations to

measure the effectiveness

of their CRM processes

3.2 Analyse the methods used

by organisations to

measure the effectiveness

of their CRM processes

Analyse the methods

organisations can use to

measure the effectiveness of

their CRM processes, detailing

the different methods used

and how these results are

communicated


methods organisations can

use to measure the

effectiveness of their CRM

processes detailing the

different methods used

and how these results are

communicated


can use the information

gathered from their CRM

analysis to inform/improve

their CRM processes and

business objectives

Business Management - Level 5 Diploma

Strategic Decision Making (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand decision making models and tools

2. Understand the influences behind strategic decision making

3. Understand the responsibilities of the decision maker






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:




the pass and merit


1. Understand decision

making models and tools

1.1 Critically analyse different

decision making models

and theories

Critically analyse different

decision making models and

theories showing a good

understanding of the merits

and drawbacks of different

models/theories

Critically analyse different

decision making models

and theories showing a


the merits and drawbacks

of different

models/theories

1.2 Evaluate the tools and

methods an organisation

employs to assist in


Evaluate the tools and


employs to assist in strategic

decision making showing an


advantages, disadvantages

and applications of each

tool/method

Evaluate the tools and


employs to assist in


showing a detailed


advantages,

disadvantages and

applications of each

tool/method

1.3 Analyse the advantages

and disadvantages of the

different techniques

employed by

organisations when

collating management

information

2. Understand the

influences behind



use information collated

to inform strategic

decision making

Explain how organisations use

information collated to inform



the various types of

information applicable

Explain how organisations

use information collated

to inform strategic

decision making showing

a detailed understanding

of the various types of

information applicable

2.2 Analyse the ways in which

business objectives

influence strategic

decision making

3. Understand the

responsibilities of the

decision maker

3.1 Evaluate the various

factors, and associated

implications, that the

decision maker must take

into consideration

3.2 Analyse the risks,

accountability levels and

hierarchy involved in the

decision making process

Analyse the risks,





how they affect the decision

making process

Analyse the risks,




showing a detailed

understanding of how

they affect the decision

making process


International Business (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of undertaking international business

2. Understand the factors that need to be considered before operating internationally

3. Understand the factors that organisations need to consider and monitor when operating

internationally

4. Understand why and how organisations exit international markets






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:




the pass and merit


1. Understand the

advantages and

disadvantages of

undertaking international

business

1.1 Describe the current

international business

environment

1.2 Discuss the advantages

and disadvantages for


business

Discuss the advantages and

disadvantages for


business referring to examples

to support arguments

Discuss the advantages

and disadvantages for


business referring to

examples to effectively

support arguments


that need to be

considered before

operating internationally

2.1 Analyse the internal and

external factors an

organisation needs to

review before operating

internationally

Analyse the internal and

external factors an

organisation needs to review

before operating

internationally demonstrating

an understanding of the

impact that these factors can

have

Analyse the internal and

external factors an

organisation needs to

review before operating

internationally



impact that these factors

can have


that organisations need

to consider and monitor

when operating

internationally

3.1 Explain the roles played

by the different business

functions in international

business

3.2 Evaluate the internal and

external factors which can

affect an organisation’s

international operations

3.3 Analyse how an

organisation can monitor

its international operations

4. Understand why and how

organisations exit

international markets

4.1 Analyse the influences

that can lead to an

organisation exiting an

international market

Analyse the influences that

can lead to an organisation

exiting an international

market using examples to

support arguments

Analyse the influences

that can lead to an

organisation exiting an

international market using

examples to support

detailed arguments

4.2 Discuss exit strategies an

organisation may employ

Discuss exit strategies an


addressing when and why

each strategy is most suitable

Discuss exit strategies an


fully addressing and

justifying when and why

each strategy is most

suitable

4.3 Evaluate the internal and

external implications of an

organisation exiting a

market

Evaluate in detail the internal

and external implications of

an organisation exiting a

market

Evaluate comprehensively

the internal and external

implications of an

organisation exiting a

market


Entrepreneurship (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand entrepreneurship and the development of innovative ideas

2. Understand business planning and market entry

3. Understand business growth strategies






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand

entrepreneurship and the

development of

innovative ideas

1.1 Define the term

‘entrepreneurship’

1.2 Discuss the different forms

of entrepreneurship


sources for generating

innovative business ideas

1.4 Discuss the differences

between, and the

ownership of, the different

types of intellectual

property (IP) rights

Discuss the differences

between, and the ownership

of, the different types of

intellectual property (IP) rights

giving examples of the

different types of IP and when

and where each type is

applicable

Discuss in detail the

differences between, and the

ownership of, the different

types of intellectual property

(IP) rights giving examples of

the different types of IP and

when and where each type is

applicable

2. Understand business

planning and market

entry

2.1 Evaluate how and why

businesses conduct

feasibility analyses for

innovative business ideas

2.2 Analyse the key features

of a business plan for a

new venture

Analyse the key features of a

business plan for a new

venture demonstrating an

understanding of the process

involved in developing a

business plan

Analyse the key features of a

business plan for a new

venture demonstrating a

detailed understanding of the

process involved in

developing a business plan

2.3 Evaluate how enterprises

generate new entry

strategies

2.4 Analyse how enterprises

manage risk

Analyse how enterprises

manage risk using examples

to support thoughtful

arguments and conclusions

Analyse how enterprises

manage risk using examples

to support well rounded

arguments and conclusions


growth strategies

3.1 Evaluate different growth

strategies businesses

employ and how they

manage their growth

Evaluate different growth

strategies businesses employ

and how they manage their

growth showing an

understanding of the types of

effective strategies that can

be used in different contexts

Evaluate different growth

strategies businesses employ

and how they manage their

growth showing a detailed

understanding of the types of

effective strategies that can

be used in different contexts

3.2 Analyse how a business

measures the success of a

growth strategy


E-Business (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the difference between business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C)

purchasing processes

2. Understand e-business infrastructure

3. Understand how the efficiency of an e-business supply chain can be improved






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand the difference

between business-to-

business (B2B) and

business-to-consumer

(B2C) purchasing

processes

1.1 Compare and contrast

B2B and B2C purchasing

processes

Compare and contrast B2B

and B2C purchasing

processes using examples to

illustrate how these processes

differ

Compare and contrast in

detail B2B and B2C

purchasing processes using

examples to illustrate how

these processes differ


purchasing options

available

2. Understand e-business

infrastructure

2.1 Identify the advantages

and disadvantages of

electronic transactions


different electronic

payment systems

available

2.3 Evaluate the purpose,

advantages and

disadvantages of

electronic data

interchange (EDI)

Evaluate the purpose,

advantages and

disadvantages of electronic

data interchange (EDI)

demonstrating a sound

understanding of role EDI

plays in e-business

Evaluate the purpose,

advantages and

disadvantages of electronic

data interchange (EDI)

demonstrating a strong

understanding of role EDI

plays in e-business

2.4 Evaluate the quality

control measures an e-

business might have in

place

3. Understand how the

efficiency of an e-business

supply chain can be

improved


components within an e-

business supply chain

3.2 Analyse the advantages

and disadvantages of e-

procurement within the

supply chain

Analyse the advantages and

disadvantages of e-


supply chain citing examples

to support analyses


advantages and

disadvantages of e-


supply chain citing examples

to support analyses

3.3 Discuss the reasons for

electronically integrating

a B2B supply chain

management process

Discuss the reasons for

electronically integrating a

B2B supply chain

management process

demonstrating a sound

understanding of role these

processes plays in e-business

operations

Discuss the reasons for

electronically integrating a

B2B supply chain

management process


understanding of role these

processes plays in e-business

operations


Strategic Business Management (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand business models and theories of strategic management

2. Understand the development, implementation and evolution of business strategy

3. Understand how to evaluate external influences on business strategy

4. Understand how businesses align their strategies to market position and opportunities






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:

To achieve a

DISTINCTION grade the

evidence must show

that, in addition to the

pass and merit criteria,

the learner can:


models and theories of

strategic management

1.1 Explain the evolution of

theories of strategic

management

1.2 Critically assess the factors

that are likely to influence

the success of alternative

business models

Assess clearly and in detail

the factors that are likely to

influence the success of

alternative business models,

demonstrating the complexity

of issues in a thoughtful and

insightful way

Assess thoroughly the

factors that are likely to

influence the success of

alternative business

models, demonstrating

an analysis of the

complexity of the issues

with insight and

originality

2. Understand the

development,

implementation and

evolution of business

strategy

2.1 Explain the role of vision,

values and mission

statements within a

business strategy

2.2 Assess the contribution

different stakeholders can

make to the evolution of

business strategy


integrating functional

elements into a coherent

business strategy

2.4 Assess the likely barriers to

achieving a coherent

business strategy


the likely barriers to achieving

a coherent business strategy,

demonstrating an analysis of

the implications and

complexity of some of these

barriers

Assess comprehensively

the various barriers to

achieving a coherent

business strategy, with a

thorough analysis of the

implications as well as

thoughtfulness, insight

and originality

2.5 Explain how businesses

can monitor, review and

revise their business

strategy


evaluate external

influences on business

strategy


can evaluate their

political, social and

economic environments

to inform their business

strategy

Explain in detail ways in which

businesses can evaluate their

political, social and economic

environments in order to

inform their business strategy,

demonstrating the complexity

of issues in a thoughtful and

insightful way

Explain thoroughly the

range of methods and

techniques used by

businesses to evaluate

their political, social and

economic environments

in order to inform their

business strategy,

demonstrating an

analysis of the


with insight and

originality


can conduct competitor

analysis to inform their

business strategy

4. Understand how business

align their strategies to

market position and

opportunities

4.1 Explain the theory of the

product life cycle and its

implications for the

evolution of business

strategy

4.2 Explain how different

product market positions

require different

capabilities and

resources to deliver

business success

4.3 Evaluate the methods

businesses can use to

assess their strengths and

weaknesses

Evaluate clearly the methods

businesses can use to assess

their strengths and

weaknesses, using critical

judgement and evidence to

support conclusions

Evaluate thoroughly the

range of methods that

businesses can use to

assess their strengths and

weaknesses, using critical

judgement and

evidence-based

research to support

conclusions drawn


Managing Marketing Strategy (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand market research

2. Understand product pricing, positioning and branding

3. Understand how to acquire and retain customers

4. Understand the development of strategic marketing plans






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





the learner can:

1. Understand market

research

1.1 Critically assess

quantitative and

qualitative results from

market research

1.2 Explain the rationale and

marketing implications for

market segmentation

1.3 Analyse diverse data to

evaluate market

opportunities and risks

Analyse in detail diverse data

to evaluate market

opportunities and risks,

demonstrating an analysis of

their implications for an


strategy

Analyse comprehensively

diverse data to evaluate

market opportunities and

risks, and their implications

for an organisation’s

marketing strategy,

demonstrating

thoughtfulness, insight and

originality

2. Understand product

pricing, positioning and

branding

2.1 Critically assess cost- and

value-based approaches

to product pricing

2.2 Analyse the relationship

between product

positioning and the

marketing mix


relationship between product

positioning and the marketing

mix, demonstrating a critical

assessment of the implications

of this for an organisation’s

marketing strategy


the relationship between

product positioning and

the marketing mix, and

their implications for an


strategy, with

thoughtfulness, insight and

originality

2.3 Explain how to build and

manage brand equity


acquire and retain

customers

3.1 Analyse the role of value

creation for acquiring and

retaining customers

Analyse in detail the role of

value creation for acquiring

and retaining customers,

demonstrating a critical

assessment of the complexity

of the issues


the role of value creation

for acquiring and retaining

customers, demonstrating

a thorough and critical

assessment of the



understanding customer

needs and motivations

3.3 Critically assess economic,

psychological and

consumer behaviour

models of buyer decision

processes

4. Understand the

development of

strategic marketing

plans

4.1 Assess the budgetary

implications of different

marketing mixes

4.2 Explain why and how

strategies for gaining and

defending market position

may differ

4.3 Critically evaluate

different marketing

metrics

Evaluate in detail a range of

different marketing metrics,


assessment of their

application and relevance

Evaluate comprehensively

a range of different

marketing metrics,

exercising thoughtful and

insightful analysis and

demonstrating a thorough

assessment of their


4.4 Review and revise

strategic marketing plans

in response to changing

circumstances and the

results of impact

assessments


Management of Human Resources (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand how human resource management contributes to business performance

2. Understand alternative strategies for acquiring human resources

3. Understand the processes of performance management

4. Understand the dynamics of human resource strategies

5. Understand the ongoing management and development of human resources






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:

To achieve a

DISTINCTION grade the

evidence must show

that, in addition to the

pass and merit criteria,

the learner can:

1. Understand how human

resource management

contributes to business

performance

1.1 Critically assess the

literature on human

resource practices and

their contribution to

business performance

Provide comprehensive

coverage of different aspects

of business and how these

may be affected by different

human resource practices

Demonstrate a

sophisticated and

holistic understanding of

the complex interaction

of business context,

business objectives and

HR strategy


determine skill needs in a

business

2. Understand alternative

strategies for acquiring

human resources


relative merits of different

forms of direct

employment and

outsourcing in different

business contexts


influence the recruitment

strategies used by

organisations

Provide a comprehensive

statement of the different

recruitment strategies

businesses can adopt and the

factors that can influence

recruitment strategies

Demonstrate a

sophisticated


complex interactions of

factors influencing

business strategy and

how these combine in

different contexts to

influence the approach

to recruitment

3. Understand the processes

of performance

management

3.1 Analyse how individual

performance can be

assessed and managed

3.2 Analyse the issues

involved in the relationship

between performance

management and

remuneration strategies

3.3 Critically assess theories of

learning, learning styles

and preferences

3.4 Explain the relationship

between performance

management, learning

and development, and

continuous improvement

Demonstrate a clear and

practical understanding of

how organisations can

achieve continuous

improvement through

performance management

driving learning and

development

Provide a critical and

evidence based

assessment of how an

organisation can

achieve continuous

improvement through

performance

management driving

learning and

development

4. Understand the dynamics

of human resource

strategies

4.1 Analyse the external

influences on human

resource management

strategies

4.2 Examine the internal

influences on human

resource management

strategies

4.3 Examine the challenges

posed by the

management of change

and how these can be

tackled


understanding of the factors

that are likely to drive change

in businesses and how

managers can respond to

these

Provide a sophisticated

understanding of how

HR strategy can help

manage change and

the components likely to

be required in different

business and change

contexts

5. Understand the ongoing

management and

development of human

resources


comparative merits of

formal, informal and

experiential learning

Demonstrate a critical

assessment of cognitive and

behavioural methods of

training and how these relate

to the different forms of

learning

Demonstrate a critical

and thorough

assessment of forms of

learning and methods

of training by applying

this in a confident and

appropriate manner to

analyse practical

examples


alternative resources

available to support

learning and

development


strengths and weaknesses

of on and off the job

learning and

development


Finance for Managers (Mandatory)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the production of financial statements

2. Understand financial data

3. Understand sources and allocation of finance

4. Understand the application of financial information to business decision-making






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria

To achieve a PASS grade

the evidence must show

that the learner can:

To achieve a MERIT grade

the evidence must show

that, in addition to the pass



grade the evidence must show

that, in addition to the pass

and merit criteria, the learner

can:

1. Understand the

production of financial

statements

1.1 Explain the difference

between financial and

management accounts


comparison of financial and

management accounts,

including an appreciation

of their differing audiences,

regulatory constraints,

content and temporal

dimensions

Provide a holistic, well-

structured and evidenced

comparison of the distinction

between financial and

management accounts,

including the reasons for

disaggregation and use of

non-financial information


influences on the

production of financial

statements

1.3 Compare national and

international standards

for financial reporting


contribution financial

reporting can make to

good ethical and

governance practices

in business

2. Understand financial

data

2.1 Explain the key

principles of financial

modelling

2.2 Compare traditional

versus alternative

corporate performance

metrics

2.3 Calculate financial

ratios from accounts


extent to which

financial ratios can

provide valid measures

of business performance

Provide a detailed

assessment of factors that

may limit the value of ratios

in assessing the relative

performance of different

businesses.

Critically compare the

contribution of financial ratios

and qualitative indicators for

other factors in assessing the

likely future performance of a

business.

3. Understand sources and

allocation of finance

3.1 Compare the

appropriateness of

different sources of

finance for long-term

financing versus

generating working

capital

Compare in detail the

appropriateness of different

funding sources for long-

term and short-term finance

needs

Critically compare the

appropriateness of different

forms of funding sources for

long-term and short-term

finance to meet a variety of

different business needs and

contexts


factors influencing

financial decisions

relating to capital and

revenue expenditure

3.3 Evaluate the criteria

used for making capital

allocations

4. Understand the

application of financial

information to business

decision making

4.1 Appraise financial

statements to inform

merger, acquisition or

investment decisions

4.2 Assess the impact of

inflation and taxation

on financial projections

4.3 Explain how to identify

and manage financial

risks


limitations of financial

statements for

informing business

decisions in the context

of uncertainty and

imperfect information

Clearly articulates the

relative merits of financial

and management

accounts for informing

business decisions

Provides a sophisticated

appreciation of risk and the

use of financial statements in

its management in the context

of small and corporate

businesses (as exemplars of

qualitative differences in

market influence and

informational resources)


Information Technology and e-Business (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the role of information technology within the economic and social world

2. Understand the value of strategic approaches to information technology in business

3. Understand how technology can be applied in key functional areas

4. Understand the factors in the wider environment affecting technology in business






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand the role of

information technology

within the economic and

social world


theories and evidence on

the role of information

technology within the

economy

Provide a wide-ranging

assessment of the relative

merits of different theories by

using appropriate evidence

Provide a sophisticated

assessment of relevant

theories that demonstrates an

ability to locate and apply

sources of evidence and deal

with the challenges of moving

from empirical evidence to

conclusions


theories and evidence on

the digital divide within

and between nations

1.3 Critically discuss the

contribution of information

technology and e-

business to globalisation

and uneven development

2. Understand the value of

strategic approaches to

information technology in

business

2.1 Assess the benefits of

developing integrated

approaches to the

application of information

technology in business


assessment of the benefits of

a strategic and holistic

approach to IT in different

business contexts

Provide an excellent

appreciation of how the

nature and context of

different businesses affect the

definition of what constitutes

integrated approaches to IT

and the scale and nature of

the benefits to be derived

from them

2.2 Analyse how businesses

can overcome barriers to

developing strategic

approaches to the

application of information

technology

2.3 Critically assess e-

commerce business

models

3. Understand how

technology can be

applied in key functional

areas

3.1 Explain the principles of e-

marketing strategies,

permission marketing and

the use of customer

relationship management

technologies

Provide an integrated

account of the importance of

permission marketing for e-

marketers and how CRM

systems can be used to

manage this process

Recognise the radical

implications of permission

marketing for e-marketing

strategy and the wider

operations of the business,

including CRM systems

3.2 Explain how social media

can be used to improve

customer service

3.3 Explain how information

technology can be

applied to improve the

management of resources

and finance

4. Understand the factors in

the wider environment

affecting technology in

business

4.1 Explain the threats to

information technology

and data security and the

strategies that can be

deployed to confront

them

Provide a clear and detailed

analysis of the diverse threats

to business IT systems and

data and the strategies that

can be deployed to deal with

them, with thoughtfulness and

insight


analysis of integrated and

strategic approaches to deal

with the diverse IT and data

security threats to businesses,

with thoughtfulness, insight

and originality

4.2 Explain the principles

behind national and

international regulations

that affect information

technology, data and e-

commerce


Information Technology and e-Business (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand theories of international economics and finance

2. Know how to analyse the environment for international business

3. Understand the practical strategies international businesses adopt






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand theories of

international economics

and finance

1.1 Critically examine theories

of international economic

development

1.2 Critically examine theories

of international finance

and global investment

management

Examine clearly and in detail

theories of international

finance and global

investment, demonstrating

critical judgement and insight

Examine comprehensively a

range of theories of

international finance and

global investment, exercising

thoughtful and insightful

analysis and demonstrating a

thorough assessment of their


2. Know how to analyse the

environment for


2.1 Analyse the political,

economic and legal

environments for


Analyse clearly and in detail

some of the political,

economic and legal

environments for international

business, assessing the

implications of these for



political, economic and legal

environments for international

business, with thoughtfulness,

insight and originality in

relation to the implications for


2.2 Analyse national and

international financial

markets

2.3 Critically assess alternative

international sources and

forms of finance

3. Understand the practical

strategies international

businesses adopt

3.1 Explain how international

businesses manage tax

liabilities

3.2 Analyse the financial risks

to international businesses

from changing exchange

and interest rates


some of the financial risks to

international businesses from

changing exchange and

interest rates, recommending

ways in which these risks may

be addressed


financial risks to international

businesses from changing

exchange and interest rates,


assessment of the ways in

which these risks may be

addressed

3.3 Analyse the financial

implications for the

management of short

term assets and liquidity in

an international business

3.4 Critically assess

competitive and co-

operative strategies for

developing international

business


Strategic Approaches to Customer Services (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand the value of customer-centric business strategies

2. Understand the organisational implications of implementing customer-centric business strategies

3. Understand how to develop customer relationships and satisfaction

4. Understand how businesses identify and respond to customer needs






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand the value of

customer-centric business

strategies

1.1 Critically examine how

customer-centric

businesses differ from

product-centric ones

Examine clearly and in detail

the distinction between

customer-centric and

product-centric businesses,

demonstrating critical

judgement and insight into

the complexity of the issues

Examine comprehensively the

distinctions between

customer-centric and

product-centric businesses,

exercising thoughtful and

insightful analysis with a

thorough assessment of the


1.2 Distinguish between the

concepts of good

customer service, a

listening organisation and

a customer-centric

organisation

1.3 Critically evaluate theories

and evidence on the

impact of customer-

centric strategies on

business performance

2. Understand the

organisational implications

of implementing


strategies

2.1 Assess the implications for

organisational culture of

adopting customer-

centric business strategies

Evaluate in detail the

implications for organisational

culture of adopting customer-

centric business strategies,

with critical judgement and

insight into the range and


Evaluate comprehensively the

implications for organisational

culture of adopting customer-

centric business strategies,


assessment of the range and


2.2 Analyse the implications

for business infrastructure

of adopting customer-



employee engagement

for delivering customer-


2.4 Critically assess ways of

securing employee

engagement in delivering


strategies


develop customer

relationships and

satisfaction

3.1 Explain why effective

working with external

organisations can be

important in delivering

customer satisfaction

3.2 Explain how to develop

strategies to maintain

customer contact and

enhance customer

relationships


how to develop strategies to

maintain and enhance

customer relationships,

recommending a variety of

approaches that could be

adopted


how to develop strategies to

maintain and enhance

customer relationships,


assessment of the variety of

approaches that could be

adopted

3.3 Critically assess methods

for assessing customer

satisfaction

4. Understand how

businesses identify and

respond to customer

needs

4.1 Critically evaluate

different ways of acquiring

information on customer

needs and preferences

4.2 Explain how information

on customer needs and

preferences from different

sources can be combined

within an overall strategy


how information on customer

needs and preferences from

different sources can be

combined within an overall

strategy, demonstrating



how information on customer

needs and preferences from

different sources can be

combined within an overall

strategy, with thoughtfulness,

insight and originality

4.3 Critically assess why

businesses may choose to

offer differing levels of

service to different

customer groups and the

criteria they may apply to

define these groups


can use customer

feedback and complaints

to drive continuous

improvement


Logistics and Supply Chain Management (Optional)

Learning Outcomes


1. Understand theories of supply chain management

2. Understand the contribution of supply chain management to achieving business objectives

3. Understand policies and practices relating to supplies and logistics

4. Understand approaches to improving supply chain management






Learning Outcomes

The learner will:

Assessment Criteria



learner can:




the learner can:





learner can:

1. Understand theories of

supply chain

management

1.1 Critically assess theories of

supply chain

management

Assess in detail theories of

supply chain management

with critical judgement and

insight

Assess comprehensively

theories of supply chain

management with critical

judgement, insight and

originality

1.2 Explain the principles of

supply chain event

management

2. Understand the

contribution of supply

chain management to

achieving business

objectives

2.1 Assess how businesses can

secure competitive

advantage through the

choice of supply chain

management strategy


identify and manage the

key drivers and barriers to

achieving integrated

supply chain strategy

Explain how businesses

identify and manage key

drivers and barriers, providing

a clear and detailed

assessment of the complexity

of the issues

Explain comprehensively how

businesses identify and

manage key drivers and

barriers, providing a critical

assessment of the variety and


3. Understand policies and

practices relating to

supplies and logistics


characteristics of

relationships with suppliers

that relate to different

supply chain strategies

Compare in detail the

characteristics of relationships

with suppliers showing a clear

and practical assessment of

their contribution to good

practice in supply chain

management

Make a comprehensive

comparison of the

characteristics of relationships

with suppliers, with an

assessment of their

contribution to good practice

in supply chain management

3.2 Explain the contribution of

logistics to achieving

supply chain objectives

3.3 Critically assess supply

chain strategies, policies

and practices

4. Understand

approaches to improving

supply chain

management

4.1 Explain the metrics used

by businesses to assess

different aspects of the

supply chain

4.2 Critically assess how

businesses analyse where

supply chain performance

can be improved


how businesses analyse where


can be improved, using

critical judgement of the

issues

Assess clearly and

comprehensively how

businesses analyse where


can be improved, using


into the complexities of the

issues


implications of actions to

improve supply chain

performance

level 4 diploma (qcf) - mandatory units · business management - level 4 diploma (qcf) management...

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