• An ability to describe and classify concepts, tools, models and theories relevant for business development.
• Ability to compare, combine and adapt different concepts, tools, models and theories relevant for business development
• Ability to utilize adapted concepts, tools, models and theories in the analysis of concrete business development cases. Furthermore, the students should be able to bring forth managerial conclusions based on her/his analysis.
• An ability to connect the analysis of business development to the general strategy of the organization. That means to be able to argue why a business development decision is relevant for the organization in it is particular circumstances.

All companies are obligated to understand their business, find ways in which to develop it and if necessary make changes to their business. The course in business development gives you the tools and insights through which, to analyse and point out challenges with the existing as well as new business models. Furthermore the course gives insights in to the implementation of innovations in the business models with an eye on strategy development, including how strategy is realized through an interaction between intended  plans and the occurrence of sudden events.

Business should be seen in relation to development of the business model and development of the strategy.

Business development as an organic function often focuses on the systemic handling of growth-opportunities available within the existing business model and strategy. Business development as an organic practice meanwhile necessitates a broader perspective that might include changes in the strategy.

Business development as an organic practice poses the question: ”How do we develop our business?” This includes a systemic handling of growth potentials, that necessitates changes in the business model and (or strategy). In order to provide a solid review of business development both aspects will be undertaken in combination, with a focus on changes to the business model as well as the associated strategic issues and implications.

Pharma specilaisation:

The course gives insight in to the challenges confronted by the life sciences. It looks at the implementation of business development practices with effects on strategy development – including how strategy is realized through plans and emerging events.

Moreover, the course discusses the interplay between product categories in new combination products and the necessary supporting business development activities. Digitalization of products, processes and innovation and the convergence of tech, bio and pharma industries is investigated. Different business agreements such as licensing agreements will be discussed. Finally, business development activities such as crowdsourcing and accelerator models will be introduced in more detail.