The course aims to strengthen the capacity to identify key challenges in the operations of small and medium-sized enterprises, identify possible solutions to the identified challenges and the implications of implementing individual solutions. During the course, students will develop effective communication skills necessary for the successful implementation of the information gathering process, presentation and argumentation of their own conclusions.
The course introduces students to various theoretical and practical approaches to consultancy and the consultancy process, especially from the perspective of the small and medium-sized enterprise sector (coselling vs. consulting). The course covers the consultancy process in detail - from the first contact between the client and the consultant, defining the level of expectations, collecting data, as well as various methods for collecting data within a business entity, to compiling a consultancy report and arguing for the proposed solutions. During the academic year, students are required to choose one business entity from the environment and practically apply the knowledge gained in the course.
1. Identify challenges in the business of small and medium-sized enterprises
2. Prepare a research plan in the selected business entity, set research objectives and select appropriate research methods for collecting data for the purpose of creating recommendations and a consulting report
3. Argue proposals for possible solutions and present their implications
