Digital Strategy, 15 Credits

Contents

Although digital technology has long since become an integral part of modern organisations’ activities it is only in the past 20 years that the strategic significance of digital has been illustrated in literature. The development of Internet based technology from the mid 1990s through today has increased the strategic importance of information technology. The starting point for the course is that today’s digital age demands new strategic approaches. Against this background the course covers, firstly, the concepts and models which can be used to identify and understand the strategic significance of digital technology and, secondly, detail studies and cases of digital technology strategies. Specifically, the course details the key components of IT strategy, the key managerial considerations for IT strategy, and the generic challenges associated with IT strategy regardless of technological platforms.

Expected learning outcomes

Regarding knowledge and understanding the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:

• describe the strategic role of digital technology for different types of organizations, and how that role has changed over time
• explain concepts and models that are useful to identify and understand the strategic importance of digital technology

Regarding proficiency and aptitude the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:

• evaluate and design digital strategy processes for different types of organizations
• carry through, document and present a project  

Regarding evaluative capacity and approach the student is, after the course, expected to be able to:

• show awareness of how digital technology can affect the strategy processes
• reflect on the possibilities and risks associated with digital strategy

Required Knowledge

Admission to the course requires 90 credits in informatics, computer science, business administration, media and communication studies, pedagogics, psychology, political science or sociology (or equivalent competence). Also required is English B/6.

Form of instruction

Teaching is done preferably in the form of lectures, seminars, group exercises and supervision in connection with self-studies. During the course necessary computer applications, which students shall use on their own, are introduced and maintained. Some assistance is given in the use of these applications. Some teaching moments may be compulsory. Teaching is normally given in English, but can even be given in Swedish. Good ability in written presentation and English are important for assimilating the course.

Examination modes

Examination is done by individual assignments, seminars and a group work.  Examination assumes good ability in written and oral presentation in English. The grade given is pass with distinction, pass or fail. For students who do not obtain a pass after the first attempt an additional examination is normally arranged within a short time afterwards. Students who do not obtain a pass after two examination attempts are allowed to participate in three further examinations. In order to do so the student must register for the course during the term the examination is given. For additional attempts to pass the exam special dispensation is needed from the director of studies or the student counsellor.

The appointed examiner may decide to use other forms of examination if required by particular circumstances.

Crediting of a Course
An application to transfer credits from previous courses should be sent to the registrar (Registrator, Umeå University, 90187 Umeå). The application is then forwarded to the department of Informatics for assessment. The application must state for which course the credit transfer is requested.  Authentic copies of course certificates or equivalent must be presented showing grade, higher education institution, date, field of study, level of study, credit points and so on. Also required is the course syllabus including literature for courses whose credits are to be transferred. For further information see “Transfer of Credits at Umeå University” (DNR: 540-3589-09).