Activity: Connecting the Dots

An image of a connect the dots drawing

Required Preparation

Before this activity, please complete the following:

  1. Read the assigned reading “Competing Globally”.
  2. Complete the corresponding Canvas quiz.

Description: This activity helps you solidify your understanding of key international business strategy analysis concepts and make connections between them. Working in groups, you’ll randomly select five concepts from a provided set and engage in a structured discussion to explore their definitions, relationships, and real-world applications. You’ll then share your insights with the class, contributing to a collaborative learning environment.

Learning Objectives

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

  • Recall and define key international business analysis concepts:
    • Global value creation
    • Scope Decision Analysis
    • Location Choice Analysis
    • Mode of Entry Analysis
    • Time of Entry Analysis
  • Explain the relationships between different concepts.
  • Apply the concepts to real-world business scenarios.
  • Communicate your insights effectively to the class.

Key Concepts

Global value creation (DDD framework) Liability of foreignness Paradox of being consistent Drivers of value capture Deployment strategies Development strategies Deepening strategies Scope decision Analysis Offshoring / inshoring Outsourcing Offshore outsourcing Internal links External links Dynamic links Mode of entry Export Franchise Alliance Joint venture Acquisition Greenfield investment Location choice analysis Location characteristics Firm fit Competitive effect Government policies Time of entry analysis Location clock Firm clock Incentive clock Competitive clock

Steps:

  1. Concept Selection: Each group will randomly select five concepts from the set of concepts listed.

  2. Group Discussion: Discuss the following for each of the five selected concepts:
    • Definition: Define the concept in your own words.
    • Connection to International Business Strategy Analysis: Explain how this concept relates to the overall process of international business strategy analysis.
    • Relationships: Identify any connections or relationships between this concept and other concepts in the set. Summarize why it matters.
    • Real-world Example: Provide a real-world example of how this concept applies in a business setting.
  3. Visual Representation: Create a visual representation (e.g., mind map, concept map) to illustrate the connections between the five concepts.
  4. Class Presentation: Share your group’s insights and visual representation with the rest of the class.

Self-assessment:

  • Active participation in group discussions.
  • Clarity and depth of insights shared during the class presentation.