Welcome to Module 10

This unit focuses on the strategies that firms use to compete in foreign markets. At the outset, the unit reviews the reasons that firms engage in international commerce, which range from earning a greater return from distinctive skills to realizing location economies by dispersing particular value creation activities to locations where they can be performed most efficiently. A major portion of the unit is dedicated to the pressures that international firm's face for cost reductions and local responsiveness. These pressures place conflicting demands on firms. On the one hand, cost reductions are best achieved through product standardization and economies of scale. On the other hand, pressures for local responsiveness require firms to modify their products to suit local demands. The unit also discusses the four basic strategies that firms utilize to compete in international markets. These strategies include global standardization, localization, transnational, and international strategies. The advantages and disadvantages of each of these strategies are discussed. The unit concludes with a discussion of international strategic alliances.

Module Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

Explain the concept of international business strategy.
Recognize how firms can profit by expanding globally.
Understand how pressures for cost reductions and pressures for local responsiveness influence strategic choice.
Identify the different international strategies for competing and their pros and cons.
Explain the pros and cons of using strategic alliances to support international strategies.

(CLO = Course Learning Outcome)

To Do

Please read/watch all of the module learning materials (readings, presentations, videos, etc.) and complete all assignments/assessments listed below. If you have questions, please contact the course instructor or ask in the Questions About This Course forum.

Readings and Presentations:

Read: Chapter 12 The Strategy of International Business

Videos:

Watch: YouTube: The Strategy of International Business

Assignments/Assessments:

Submit: Discussion #5; 4 points; DEADLINE: Sunday, August 11, 11:59 PM

Term Assessment Group Presentation:

Review:
- Presented case study by the professor.
- Teams will be assigned by the professor along with the project details and questions to be answered.
Collaborate:
- Work together to format a presentation.
- All questions must be addressed by each team for maximum scoring.
Present:
- Each team will present their answers to the class.
- Each team member must present; non-participative students will not be scored.
- Special considerations and alternative plans may be considered with verification documentation from doctors or QC administrators and taken on a case-by-case basis.
30 points
Presentations on Tuesday, August 6 (make-ups and substitutions will not be accepted)

Click the Next ▶ button to continue.