• Course Introduction

        • Time: 5 hours
        • Free Certificate
        Managers plan and coordinate the work of others so that an organization can achieve its goals. In this course, learn about the planning function of managers, which involves identifying needed resources – such as people, finances, and equipment – and organizing them so employees can be productive and meet set objectives.

        In addition to setting company-wide strategy and long-term goals, managers also create short-term interim goals as a means of focusing the activities of an organization and providing direction to employees.

        • Course Syllabus

          First, read the course syllabus. Then, enroll in the course by clicking "Enroll me". Click Unit 1 to read its introduction and learning outcomes. You will then see the learning materials and instructions on how to use them.

        • Unit 1: Planning and Strategy

          This unit provides an overview of planning and strategy, including management strategy frameworks and important considerations in developing and implementing effective strategies. 

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 1.5 hours. 

        • Unit 2: Setting and Achieving Goals and Objectives


          Explore the differences between goals and objectives, as well as how to identify and measure successful ones that can be used in support of organizational strategies. 

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours. 

        • Unit 3: How Do Managers Develop Strategy?


          Strategy is a key element in business success. In this unit, learn about the key components in the process of developing effective strategies.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 1.5 hours. 

        • Course Feedback Survey

          Please take a few minutes to give us feedback about this course. We appreciate your feedback, whether you completed the whole course or even just a few resources. Your feedback will help us make our courses better, and we use your feedback each time we make updates to our courses.

          If you come across any urgent problems, email contact@saylor.org.

        • Certificate Final Exam

          Take this exam if you want to earn a free Course Completion Certificate.

          To receive a free Course Completion Certificate, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on this final exam. Your grade for the exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again as many times as you want, with a 7-day waiting period between each attempt.

          Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a free Course Completion Certificate.