Course Insights
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If it happens in business, the Open University Business School knows about it. In these exclusive articles based on genuine course material, you'll get an insight into the issues that affect all companies, regardless of their size.
Have you got what it takes?
Take a test to discover if you’ve got what it takes and learn what makes an entrepreneur.
Driving innovation
Creativity can make or break an organization. How do companies get the creative juices flowing? What drives - and what kills - innovation?
Radical innovation
Sometimes a new idea changes the landscape, and even well-established companies struggle to cope. DVDs, digital cameras and Google are all examples of radical innovation.
Transforming trade
Fairtrade has come a long way from church halls and Oxfam shops. How does it work and how is people power transforming trade?
Placing their bets
Real-world casinos can offer inducements, but how does the business change when they take the online gamble?
Relative values
The value of a product depends not just on the product itself - but how popular it is with other people. That's just one example of the working of network effects.
All in the mind
The same thinking processes that help you cope with everyday life prejudice your judgements in other areas. Consider the psychology of decision making.
Transforming leadership
In the past, organisations have denied women positions of power. Discover how this discrimination led to a leadership revolution in women as leaders.
Control your power
Knowledge is power - but all power needs to be tamed. The key is managing knowledge.
Keeping ahead
In business, the race is always to the swift - but how can companies maximise their competitive advantage?
Trademarks register
In a world of unceasing competition, you can't underestimate the importance of brands.
Protect your values
The better you are at brand building, the more attractive you'll be to the counterfeiters. Constant vigilance is the key to securing your brand.
The youth market
Companies like Reebok spend a lot of time and effort targeting young people. Learn about the tactics they use to win over the youth market.
Keeping customers
Selling without selling out
A high-pressure environment like sales can pervert moral values. How can companies remain ethical marketeers?
Power corrupts
Big business has a reputation for abusing its power. Explore the tactics used to call companies to account.
Burdens reduced
Nobody likes paying tax - but how far would you go to avoid it? Liberia? Monaco? Explore the rules of tax shelters.
Privacy issues
Discover the ideas behind CCTV and data collection. Why are these techniques used? In the UK today, how private is private?
