MGN409 Management Theory and Practice
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: | MGN409 |
|---|---|
| Antirequisite(s): | GSN401, GSZ401 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $4,596 |
| International unit fee | $6,180 |
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2026, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | MGN409 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Anti-requisite: | GSN401 and GSZ401 |
| Coordinator: | Robert Perrons | robert.perrons@qut.edu.au |
Overview
In addition to the basic functions of management, the changing nature of managerial work increasingly requires strategic thinking in the age of AI. Managers must now facilitate, develop, and integrate human, digital, and physical resources to create value and drive sustainable productivity. This unit explores current approaches to managing and leading, while highlighting how AI and digital transformation are reshaping decision-making, organisational design, and competitive advantage. You will examine the challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic environments and develop the strategic, digital, and people capabilities needed to adapt, innovate, and lead effectively into the future.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply management theories, models, and principles, using digital capabilities, to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments. [KS 1.1, KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Evaluate and develop recommendations for future actions based on critical analysis of organisational factors. [HO 2.2]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: HO (2.2)
- Describe ethical and sustainability issues in organisations and the role of socially responsible business practices. [SE 5.1, 5.2]
- Use written communication skills to capture analysis and articulate business challenges and opportunities. [PC 3.1]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: PC (3.1)
Content
This unit explores how management and strategy are evolving in the age of AI, focusing on the integration of human, digital, and physical resources to drive sustainable productivity. Topics include digital transformation, leadership, organisational design, ethics, and the strategic challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic and globally connected environments.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
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 and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
The teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to maximise your involvement and engagement with the concepts presented, while providing opportunities for you to develop your thinking and practical skills in a supportive environment. Learning activities create a dynamic setting that encourages you to apply theory and frameworks critically and analytically to real-world cases. You will experience a wide range of interactive approaches designed to enrich your learning and deepen your understanding.
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 or personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), or 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 learning objectives for both discipline knowledge and other graduate capabilities. Assessment items have 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); and demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Environmental Analysis
Your task is to apply the PESTEL framework to identify the most relevant and significant trends or issues currently affecting the case organisation’s external environment. You must identify and prioritise the opportunities and challenges that emerge from your external analysis.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorized 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 or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1. 1.2), HO (2.1), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Invigilated Exam
The final exam will assess your ability to apply relevant management theories, models, and principles to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments, and to evaluate and develop well-reasoned recommendations for future action based on your analysis.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
The invigilated examination requires attendance on campus or at an assessment center, regardless of your attendance mode for the unit.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the unit canvas site.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.1, 2.2), SE (5.2).
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
There is a prescribed textbook for this unit and additional resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Schermerhorn, J. R., Bachrach, D. G., Woods, P., Junaid, F., McKeown, T., & Co, M. J. (2023). Exploring Management - Asia Pacific Edition (1st ed.). Milton, QLD, Australia: John Wiley & Sons.
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 (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam
KS (1.1): Discipline and Professional Practice Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
KS (1.2): Technical, Technological and Research Skills
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam - Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
EN55 Master of Professional Engineering
- Apply advanced and specialist knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering design, analysis management and sustainability.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non specialist audiences.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
Relates to: Invigilated Exam
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2026, Online
| Unit code: | MGN409 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Anti-requisite: | GSN401 and GSZ401 |
Overview
In addition to the basic functions of management, the changing nature of managerial work increasingly requires strategic thinking in the age of AI. Managers must now facilitate, develop, and integrate human, digital, and physical resources to create value and drive sustainable productivity. This unit explores current approaches to managing and leading, while highlighting how AI and digital transformation are reshaping decision-making, organisational design, and competitive advantage. You will examine the challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic environments and develop the strategic, digital, and people capabilities needed to adapt, innovate, and lead effectively into the future.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply management theories, models, and principles, using digital capabilities, to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments. [KS 1.1, KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Evaluate and develop recommendations for future actions based on critical analysis of organisational factors. [HO 2.2]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: HO (2.2)
- Describe ethical and sustainability issues in organisations and the role of socially responsible business practices. [SE 5.1, 5.2]
- Use written communication skills to capture analysis and articulate business challenges and opportunities. [PC 3.1]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: PC (3.1)
Content
This unit explores how management and strategy are evolving in the age of AI, focusing on the integration of human, digital, and physical resources to drive sustainable productivity. Topics include digital transformation, leadership, organisational design, ethics, and the strategic challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic and globally connected environments.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
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 and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
The teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to maximise your involvement and engagement with the concepts presented, while providing opportunities for you to develop your thinking and practical skills in a supportive environment. Learning activities create a dynamic setting that encourages you to apply theory and frameworks critically and analytically to real-world cases. You will experience a wide range of interactive approaches designed to enrich your learning and deepen your understanding.
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 or personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), or 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 learning objectives for both discipline knowledge and other graduate capabilities. Assessment items have 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); and demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Environmental Analysis
Your task is to apply the PESTEL framework to identify the most relevant and significant trends or issues currently affecting the case organisation’s external environment. You must identify and prioritise the opportunities and challenges that emerge from your external analysis.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorized 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 or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1. 1.2), HO (2.1), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Invigilated Exam
The final exam will assess your ability to apply relevant management theories, models, and principles to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments, and to evaluate and develop well-reasoned recommendations for future action based on your analysis.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
The invigilated examination requires attendance on campus or at an assessment center, regardless of your attendance mode for the unit.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the unit canvas site.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.1, 2.2), SE (5.2).
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
There is a prescribed textbook for this unit and additional resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Schermerhorn, J. R., Bachrach, D. G., Woods, P., Junaid, F., McKeown, T., & Co, M. J. (2023). Exploring Management - Asia Pacific Edition (1st ed.). Milton, QLD, Australia: John Wiley & Sons.
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 (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam
KS (1.1): Discipline and Professional Practice Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
KS (1.2): Technical, Technological and Research Skills
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam - Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
EN55 Master of Professional Engineering
- Apply advanced and specialist knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering design, analysis management and sustainability.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non specialist audiences.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
Relates to: Invigilated Exam
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | MGN409 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Anti-requisite: | GSN401 and GSZ401 |
Overview
In addition to the basic functions of management, the changing nature of managerial work increasingly requires strategic thinking in the age of AI. Managers must now facilitate, develop, and integrate human, digital, and physical resources to create value and drive sustainable productivity. This unit explores current approaches to managing and leading, while highlighting how AI and digital transformation are reshaping decision-making, organisational design, and competitive advantage. You will examine the challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic environments and develop the strategic, digital, and people capabilities needed to adapt, innovate, and lead effectively into the future.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply management theories, models, and principles, using digital capabilities, to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments. [KS 1.1, KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Evaluate and develop recommendations for future actions based on critical analysis of organisational factors. [HO 2.2]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: HO (2.2)
- Describe ethical and sustainability issues in organisations and the role of socially responsible business practices. [SE 5.1, 5.2]
- Use written communication skills to capture analysis and articulate business challenges and opportunities. [PC 3.1]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: PC (3.1)
Content
This unit explores how management and strategy are evolving in the age of AI, focusing on the integration of human, digital, and physical resources to drive sustainable productivity. Topics include digital transformation, leadership, organisational design, ethics, and the strategic challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic and globally connected environments.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
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 and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
The teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to maximise your involvement and engagement with the concepts presented, while providing opportunities for you to develop your thinking and practical skills in a supportive environment. Learning activities create a dynamic setting that encourages you to apply theory and frameworks critically and analytically to real-world cases. You will experience a wide range of interactive approaches designed to enrich your learning and deepen your understanding.
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 or personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), or 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 learning objectives for both discipline knowledge and other graduate capabilities. Assessment items have 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); and demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Environmental Analysis
Your task is to apply the PESTEL framework to identify the most relevant and significant trends or issues currently affecting the case organisation’s external environment. You must identify and prioritise the opportunities and challenges that emerge from your external analysis.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorized 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 or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1. 1.2), HO (2.1), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Invigilated Exam
The final exam will assess your ability to apply relevant management theories, models, and principles to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments, and to evaluate and develop well-reasoned recommendations for future action based on your analysis.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
The invigilated examination requires attendance on campus or at an assessment center, regardless of your attendance mode for the unit.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the unit canvas site.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.1, 2.2), SE (5.2).
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
There is a prescribed textbook for this unit and additional resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Schermerhorn, J. R., Bachrach, D. G., Woods, P., Junaid, F., McKeown, T., & Co, M. J. (2023). Exploring Management - Asia Pacific Edition (1st ed.). Milton, QLD, Australia: John Wiley & Sons.
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 (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam
KS (1.1): Discipline and Professional Practice Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
KS (1.2): Technical, Technological and Research Skills
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam - Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
EN55 Master of Professional Engineering
- Apply advanced and specialist knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering design, analysis management and sustainability.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non specialist audiences.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
Relates to: Invigilated Exam
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2026, Online
| Unit code: | MGN409 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Anti-requisite: | GSN401 and GSZ401 |
Overview
In addition to the basic functions of management, the changing nature of managerial work increasingly requires strategic thinking in the age of AI. Managers must now facilitate, develop, and integrate human, digital, and physical resources to create value and drive sustainable productivity. This unit explores current approaches to managing and leading, while highlighting how AI and digital transformation are reshaping decision-making, organisational design, and competitive advantage. You will examine the challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic environments and develop the strategic, digital, and people capabilities needed to adapt, innovate, and lead effectively into the future.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply management theories, models, and principles, using digital capabilities, to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments. [KS 1.1, KS 1.2, HO 2.1]
- Evaluate and develop recommendations for future actions based on critical analysis of organisational factors. [HO 2.2]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: HO (2.2)
- Describe ethical and sustainability issues in organisations and the role of socially responsible business practices. [SE 5.1, 5.2]
- Use written communication skills to capture analysis and articulate business challenges and opportunities. [PC 3.1]Relates to: PG Business Capabilities: PC (3.1)
Content
This unit explores how management and strategy are evolving in the age of AI, focusing on the integration of human, digital, and physical resources to drive sustainable productivity. Topics include digital transformation, leadership, organisational design, ethics, and the strategic challenges of managing contemporary organisations in dynamic and globally connected environments.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
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 and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
The teaching and learning strategies in this unit are designed to maximise your involvement and engagement with the concepts presented, while providing opportunities for you to develop your thinking and practical skills in a supportive environment. Learning activities create a dynamic setting that encourages you to apply theory and frameworks critically and analytically to real-world cases. You will experience a wide range of interactive approaches designed to enrich your learning and deepen your understanding.
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 or personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), or 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 learning objectives for both discipline knowledge and other graduate capabilities. Assessment items have 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); and demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Environmental Analysis
Your task is to apply the PESTEL framework to identify the most relevant and significant trends or issues currently affecting the case organisation’s external environment. You must identify and prioritise the opportunities and challenges that emerge from your external analysis.
The ethical and responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is authorized 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 or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1. 1.2), HO (2.1), PC (3.1), SE (5.1)
Assessment: Invigilated Exam
The final exam will assess your ability to apply relevant management theories, models, and principles to critically analyse challenges and opportunities in an organisation’s external and internal environments, and to evaluate and develop well-reasoned recommendations for future action based on your analysis.
The use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools is prohibited during this assessment.
The invigilated examination requires attendance on campus or at an assessment center, regardless of your attendance mode for the unit.
This assessment item is a Verified Identity Assessment. Requirements are provided on the unit canvas site.
Formative or Summative: Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): KS (1.1), HO (2.1, 2.2), SE (5.2).
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
There is a prescribed textbook for this unit and additional resources will be provided on the unit Canvas site.
Resource Materials
Prescribed text(s)
Schermerhorn, J. R., Bachrach, D. G., Woods, P., Junaid, F., McKeown, T., & Co, M. J. (2023). Exploring Management - Asia Pacific Edition (1st ed.). Milton, QLD, Australia: John Wiley & Sons.
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 (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam
KS (1.1): Discipline and Professional Practice Knowledge
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam
KS (1.2): Technical, Technological and Research Skills
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO3, Invigilated Exam - Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1, Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO2, Invigilated Exam - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4, Environmental Analysis - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO3, Environmental Analysis
EN55 Master of Professional Engineering
- Apply advanced and specialist knowledge, concepts and practices in engineering design, analysis management and sustainability.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Critically analyse and evaluate complex engineering problems to achieve research informed solutions.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Communicate complex information effectively and succinctly, presenting high level reports, arguments and justifications in oral, written and visual forms to professional and non specialist audiences.
Relates to: Environmental Analysis , Invigilated Exam - Organise and manage time, tasks and projects independently, and collaboratively demonstrating the values and principles that shape engineering decision making and professional accountability.
Relates to: Invigilated Exam