BLB170 The Evidence Based Enterprise
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | BLB170 |
|---|---|
| Antirequisite(s): | BSB131 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | BLB170 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Anti-requisite: | BSB131 |
Overview
In this foundational unit, you will explore how data supports evidence-based decision-making in contemporary organisations. You will examine how data is generated, collected and used across business contexts, and develop confidence in applying core statistical concepts, probability reasoning and basic data handling techniques to address real-world business questions. Emphasis is placed on interpreting data critically, assessing data quality, and understanding how evidence informs strategic and operational decisions. By the end of the unit, you will be able to use data responsibly and analytically to support business problem-solving in digitally enabled environments.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply foundational business analytics knowledge and core statistical concepts to analyse structured datasets and support evidence-based business decisions. [KS 1.1, 1.2]
- Investigate business questions using data collection, hypothesis testing and probability reasoning, critically evaluating the strength of evidence and its implications for business decision-making. [HO 2.1]Relates to: UG Business Capabilities 2027: HO (2.1)
- Communicate data-driven insights professionally in written format using appropriate business language, supporting evidence, and data literacy skills to justify recommendations for diverse business contexts. [HO 2.2, PC 3.1, TS 4.1]
Content
Weekly topics include:
- Prediction versus forecast
- Hypothesis testing
- Probability, data-driven mindset
- What is data?
- Data quality
- Data analysis
- Quantitative and qualitative data
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
2.2 Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
3.2 Communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to engage, inform, and influence diverse audiences using appropriate technologies and presentation formats across varied business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
4.2 Collaborate effectively in diverse and digitally enabled team environments, applying teamwork knowledge and skills to achieve shared goals.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles to analyse and respond to business issues with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Learning Approaches
In this unit, you will learn through a blended approach that combines interactive synchronous activities with complementary online learning activities. There will be a focus on applying analytical concepts to authentic business problems through group discussion, guided exercises, and real-world case studies. Online resources will extend your learning, providing opportunities to explore analytical tools, datasets, and digital simulations that reinforce key concepts. You are expected to prepare for classes by completing online preparation materials, engaging with readings and videos, and attempting formative activities that support in-class collaboration. Regular review tasks will help you consolidate your understanding and apply data-driven reasoning to strategic business decisions. This integrated learning design connects theory and practice, develops your digital and analytical capabilities, and prepares you to work confidently in technology-enabled business environments.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit aims to support your achievement of the unit learning outcomes and course assurance of learning goals. The assessment has been designed in order to allow you to:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment);
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
You will assume the role of a business analyst and investigate a contemporary organisational issue using relevant datasets. You will identify and justify appropriate data sources, apply foundational statistical techniques and probability reasoning, and interpret findings to support evidence-based recommendations. You must critically evaluate data quality and reflect on the strengths and limitations of your analysis in informing business decision-making.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1)
Assessment: End-of-Semester Examination
In this invigilated examination, you will demonstrate your ability to analyse a structured dataset and respond to specific business questions using appropriate statistical reasoning and data interpretation. You will be required to apply core concepts, evaluate evidence, and justify conclusions in support of business decision-making.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
This invigilated examination requires attendance on campus or at an assessment centre, regardless of your attendance mode for the unit.
This assessment item is Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1, 1.2), HO (2.1), PC (3.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resource requirements will be detailed on the Canvas site.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities in this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO2, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
KS (1.1): Discipline Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS05 Bachelor of Business
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO2, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
BS08 Bachelor of Business - International
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO2, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2027, Online
| Unit code: | BLB170 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Anti-requisite: | BSB131 |
Overview
In this foundational unit, you will explore how data supports evidence-based decision-making in contemporary organisations. You will examine how data is generated, collected and used across business contexts, and develop confidence in applying core statistical concepts, probability reasoning and basic data handling techniques to address real-world business questions. Emphasis is placed on interpreting data critically, assessing data quality, and understanding how evidence informs strategic and operational decisions. By the end of the unit, you will be able to use data responsibly and analytically to support business problem-solving in digitally enabled environments.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply foundational business analytics knowledge and core statistical concepts to analyse structured datasets and support evidence-based business decisions. [KS 1.1, 1.2]
- Investigate business questions using data collection, hypothesis testing and probability reasoning, critically evaluating the strength of evidence and its implications for business decision-making. [HO 2.1]Relates to: UG Business Capabilities 2027: HO (2.1)
- Communicate data-driven insights professionally in written format using appropriate business language, supporting evidence, and data literacy skills to justify recommendations for diverse business contexts. [HO 2.2, PC 3.1, TS 4.1]
Content
Weekly topics include:
- Prediction versus forecast
- Hypothesis testing
- Probability, data-driven mindset
- What is data?
- Data quality
- Data analysis
- Quantitative and qualitative data
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
1.2 Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
2.2 Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
3.2 Communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to engage, inform, and influence diverse audiences using appropriate technologies and presentation formats across varied business contexts.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
4.2 Collaborate effectively in diverse and digitally enabled team environments, applying teamwork knowledge and skills to achieve shared goals.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles to analyse and respond to business issues with integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible and sustainable business practices to address national and global business challenges in ways that create long-term value.
Learning Approaches
In this unit, you will learn through a blended approach that combines interactive synchronous activities with complementary online learning activities. There will be a focus on applying analytical concepts to authentic business problems through group discussion, guided exercises, and real-world case studies. Online resources will extend your learning, providing opportunities to explore analytical tools, datasets, and digital simulations that reinforce key concepts. You are expected to prepare for classes by completing online preparation materials, engaging with readings and videos, and attempting formative activities that support in-class collaboration. Regular review tasks will help you consolidate your understanding and apply data-driven reasoning to strategic business decisions. This integrated learning design connects theory and practice, develops your digital and analytical capabilities, and prepares you to work confidently in technology-enabled business environments.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit aims to support your achievement of the unit learning outcomes and course assurance of learning goals. The assessment has been designed in order to allow you to:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment);
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
You will assume the role of a business analyst and investigate a contemporary organisational issue using relevant datasets. You will identify and justify appropriate data sources, apply foundational statistical techniques and probability reasoning, and interpret findings to support evidence-based recommendations. You must critically evaluate data quality and reflect on the strengths and limitations of your analysis in informing business decision-making.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorised in this assessment. See the relevant assessment details in Canvas for specific guidelines.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1)
Assessment: End-of-Semester Examination
In this invigilated examination, you will demonstrate your ability to analyse a structured dataset and respond to specific business questions using appropriate statistical reasoning and data interpretation. You will be required to apply core concepts, evaluate evidence, and justify conclusions in support of business decision-making.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
This invigilated examination requires attendance on campus or at an assessment centre, regardless of your attendance mode for the unit.
This assessment item is Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the Unit Canvas site.
Formative and Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1, 1.2), HO (2.1), PC (3.1)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
Resource requirements will be detailed on the Canvas site.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with learning and teaching activities in this unit.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Undergraduate) 2027
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO2, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
KS (1.1): Discipline Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination
KS (1.2): Technical and Technological Skills
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS05 Bachelor of Business
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO2, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study
BS08 Bachelor of Business - International
- Demonstrate and apply integrated business knowledge, combining disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary insight, to address complex and evolving business challenges.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Apply technical and digital capabilities, including emerging technologies such as AI, and data analytics, to solve real-world business problems and drive innovation and transformation.
Relates to: ULO1, End-of-Semester Examination - Investigate complex business issues by critically analysing, evaluating, and synthesising theory and practice to generate evidence-based insights.
Relates to: ULO2, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Exercise independent judgment and initiative to adapt and apply knowledge and skills for strategic planning, creative problem-solving, and effective decision-making in diverse, dynamic, and technology-enabled contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study - Communicate effectively and professionally in written forms, demonstrating information literacy and the ability to craft clear, purposeful, and audience-appropriate messages using suitable media and formats across diverse business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study, End-of-Semester Examination - Engage in reflective practice and demonstrate responsibility and accountability for your own learning, professional development, and performance in a rapidly changing world of work.
Relates to: ULO3, Evidence-Based Business Analysis Case Study