Tags
SBE
Admissions requirements
Complete Course 3; Business Model Generation or permission of instructor.
Description
“If it’s a good idea, go ahead and do it. It is much easier to apologise than it is to get permission.” — Grace Hopper, computer scientist (1906–92)
In this 200-level course student teams will build, market, evaluate and improve their Minimum Viable Product (MVP) over several iterations. (“Product” can mean a business or social good or service.) The process begins with an initial idea based on assumptions. You will then test that idea against reality and use feedback loops to improve the MVP in the next iteration. Project execution is challenging due to uncertainties over people, processes and resources, but setbacks provide learning opportunities. Students will emerge with experience in working together and developing robust business strategies for operating in the appropriate “market.”
Course objectives
- Explain lean start-up and agile working methods
- Build MVPs for products or services
- Redesign your MVP for a new iteration
- Explain an MVP’s value to potential clients and backers
- Compare your MVP, via cost and value, to competitors
- Evaluate the value and impact of your start-up
- Reflect on interdisciplinary team experiences
Timetable
Once available, timetables will be published in the e-Prospectus.
Mode of instruction
The course is taught through two-hour seminars. Students will be expected to participate in both large and small group discussions; present and defend their ideas within an academic setting; and take part in group projects. The instructor will facilitate and ensure the efficient running of the discussion, but students are responsible for its quality.
Assessment
Participation: 15% (continuous weeks 1-7)
Individual presentations: 2 x 10% (due weeks 2 and 3)
Group presentation: 15% (due week 7)
Group report: 30% (due reading week)
Individual final exam: 20% (due reading week)
Please note:
In accordance with article 4.8 of the Course and Examination Regulations (OER), within 30 days after the publication of grades, the instructor will provide students the opportunity to inspect their exams/coursework.
There is a no re-sit policy at Leiden University College.
Blackboard
There will be a Blackboard site available for this course. Students will be enrolled at least one week before the start of classes.
Reading list
Sirolli, Ernesto (2012). How to Start a Business & Ignite Your Life: A Simple Guide to Combining Business Wisdom with Passion. Square One Publishers
Registration
This course is open to LUC students and LUC exchange students. Registration is coordinated by the Education Coordinator. Interested non-LUC students should contact course.administration@luc.leidenuniv.nl.
Contact
Dr. T.C. van der Spek
titus.vanderspek@gmail.com