98762 - Networks Lab

Learning outcomes

This laboratory introduces concepts, methods and tools for the analysis of organizational and inter-organizational networks; it is an applied and quantitative complement of a relational approach to businesses firms and organizations in general. At the end of the course the student: - Is familiar with the relevance of networks in understanding organizations and their strategies - Knows the main concepts developed in the field of “network analysis” - Has a basic working knowledge of the data, methods and software required to perform the analysis of social and organizational networks

Course contents

This course aims to provide students with a solid understanding of the foundations of business strategy and the practical skills needed to develop and implement effective business strategies, while also integrating the analysis of organizational networks. We will use the textbook "Strategic Management: Concepts and Cases" as the main guide and supplement the course with practical exercises, business guests, group work and case studies to enhance students' ability to apply strategic concepts in real-world contexts.

Main Topics:

1. Introduction to Business Strategy and Organizational Networks.

2. Analysis of the External Environment

3. Internal Analysis and Competitive Advantage

4.Strategic Alliances and Partnership Networks

5. Corporate Strategies

6. Innovative and Competitive Strategies and Network

7. Strategy in Action

Readings/Bibliography

- Strategic Management: Concepts and Cases 3rd Edition

by Jeffrey H. Dyer, Paul C. Godfrey Robert J. Jensen, David J. Bryce - English version

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- Strategic Management: Principi and Applicazioni- PandoraCampus, 2018

by Jeffrey H. Dyer, Paul C. Godfrey Robert J. Jensen, David J. Bryce , Alberto Pastore – Italian version

Chapters 1,2,3,6,8,10,11,12 for attendees

Chapters 1,2,3,6,7,8,10,11,12,14 for non-attenders

Teaching methods

- Interactive theoretical lectures.

- Application exercises to consolidate knowledge.

- Discussion of real business cases and strategies.

- Group projects for practical application of skills.

- Business simulations to make strategic decisions.

- Business challenges with industry guests to solve real world complex business challenges.

What students will learn:

- Understand the key concepts of business strategy.

- Analyze the external and internal environment of organizations.

- Evaluate internal resources and develop competitive advantage.

- Apply network-based business and growth strategies.

- Manage strategic alliances and partnerships.

- Design innovative and competitive strategies.

- Effectively implement business strategies

Assessment methods

For attending students:
Written Examination (60% of Final Grade): At the end of the course, students will take a written exam with multiple-choice and open-ended questions covering all course content, including case study content. This exam accounts for 50% of the final grade.


Average of Group Work and Challenge (40% of Final Grade): The average of the grades obtained in the group projects will constitute the remaining 40% of the final grade.


For non-attending students:

Written Examination: Multiple-choice and open-ended questions on the indicated book chapters.

Teaching tools

- Supports provided in the classroom by the Professor.

Office hours

See the website of Gianluca Guillaro