Issues in the Global Business Environment
Gain insights into global business challenges and develop skills to navigate risk, strategy, and crisis communication.
Duration
3 weeksWeekly study
3 hours100% online
How it worksDigital upgrade
Free
Issues in the Global Business Environment
Navigate the complexities of the modern business world
The global business environment is evolving rapidly, driven by technological disruption, geopolitical shifts, and sustainability challenges. To stay competitive, organisations must adapt strategically and respond effectively to emerging risks.
On this course, you’ll explore key global trends shaping business today, from AI-driven automation to corporate social responsibility (CSR). You’ll develop practical skills in risk assessment, strategic response, and crisis communication to navigate complex challenges confidently.
Guided by experts from Salford Business School, you’ll critically evaluate contemporary business issues and apply strategic solutions in your own professional context.
Analyse global mega-trends and contemporary business challenges
You’ll begin by examining major global trends, including climate change, AI and automation, and shifting geopolitical landscapes.
Through real-world case studies, you’ll explore how businesses respond to these challenges and balance profitability with ethical and social responsibility.
Develop strategic responses to business risks
Next, you’ll learn how to conduct risk assessments using tools such as PESTLE and SWOT analysis, identifying threats and opportunities. Case studies of business successes and failures will help you refine your ability to mitigate risks and develop sustainable strategies.
Master crisis communication and rapid-response planning
Effective communication is key to business resilience. You’ll craft rapid-response communication plans to ensure transparency, credibility, and stakeholder trust during crises.
With insights from industry best practices, you’ll explore how leading organisations manage crises, maintain reputation, and build long-term resilience.
Syllabus
Week 1
Introduction to Contemporary Issues and Mega-Trends
Module Overview
This module is broken down into three sections - Global Mega-Trends and Contemporary Issues, Business Risk Mitigation and Strategic Responses and Crafting a Rapid-Response Communication Plan.
Understanding Mega-Trends
Mega-trends are transformative, long-term forces like technological advancements, demographic shifts, climate change, and globalisation. They shape industries and societies, influencing business strategies.
Technological Disruption (e.g., AI and Automation)
Technological Disruption, driven by advancements in AI and automation, is transforming industries, reshaping jobs, and redefining the way businesses operate in an increasingly digital economy.
Impact of Geopolitical Shifts
Mega-trends, including geopolitical shifts, highlight the evolving dynamics of global power, trade, and alliances, reshaping economies, policies, and business strategies worldwide.
Learning Check One
Read the article in preparation for your first learning check.
Wider reading
Explore Ethics vs Profit in Business Decisions to understand balancing morality and profitability. Dive into The Role of CSR to see how businesses drive sustainability and trust while creating value for stakeholders.
Week 2
Business Risk Assessment and Strategic Responses
Risk Assessment Frameworks
Risk assessment frameworks are essential tools for navigating contemporary issues in the global business environment. They enable organisations to identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential risks.
Strategic Business Responses
Businesses can develop effective strategies to manage risks, align with ethical standards, and build resilience in a dynamic global environment.
Learning Check Two
Read this article in preparation for your learning check two.
Wider reading
Refer to links to extend your knowledge of Business Risk Assessment and Strategic Responses.
Week 3
Crafting a Rapid-Response Communication Plan
Elements of a Communication Plan
Developing an effective communication plan is crucial for senior managers aiming to implement rapid responses during a crisis.
Best Practices in Crisis Communication
By implementing best practices, organisations can effectively navigate a crisis and maintain long-term stakeholder trust and resilience.
Learning Check Three
Read this article in preparation for your learning check three. [Case Study: The Johnson & Johnson Tylenol Crisis](https://www.ou.edu/deptcomm/dodjcc/groups/02C2/Johnson%20%26%20Johnson.htm)
Wider reading
Extending your knowledge in the area of communications and rapid response will help your overall management and leadership strategic awareness. The articles below provide you with wider reading to understand crisis communication.
Final Holistic Assessment
You are required to complete a comprehensive assessment based on the three areas of Contemporary Issues in a Global Business Environment.
Next steps in your professional development journey
Now you have completed the module learning materials, you can step onto our next module, Marketing in the Digital Age or sign up for our Global MBA with Salford Business School.
When would you like to start?
Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.
Available now
Learning on this course
On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...
- Explain the various elements required to navigate complex issues faced by managers in today's global business environment
Who is the course for?
Junior/Mid/Senior Managers and those who have completed an undergraduate degree
Who will you learn with?
I am experienced higher education curriculum developer, leader, researcher, learning and teaching specialist, and project lead for Carbon Literacy in Salford Business School. I teach on the GMBA
Who developed the course?
Salford Business School
Salford Business School offers practical knowledge, forward-looking skills and expert insights to nurture our learners and prepare them for a successful career.
What's included?
Salford Business School are offering everyone who joins this course a free digital upgrade, so that you can experience the full benefits of studying online for free. This means that you get:
Learning on FutureLearn
Your learning, your rules
- Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
- Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
- Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores
Join a global classroom
- Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
- Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
- Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others
Map your progress
- As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
- Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control
- Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate
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