Description:

Upon successful completion of this capstone course, the student should be able to identify problems that frequently arise in small business and use problem-solving skills to formulate solutions. In addition, the student should be able to apply the knowledge of business concepts and techniques in the analysis of cases and actual business situations. This course is required for an associate of applied science degree and a vocational certificate in business entrepreneurship. 2 hrs./wk.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Use appropriate business terminology in interpreting and analyzing case studies.
2. Identify the legal needs of a business.
3. Evaluate the risks associated with a business opportunity.
4. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of various business entry strategies.
5. Identify the management skills needed to successfully start and grow a business.
6. Discuss the capital needs for a business and identify sources and means of raising capital.
7. Evaluate and develop marketing plans for specific businesses.
8. Apply the basic elements and processes of financial management to a business.
9. Identify ways to solve human resources challenges for small businesses.
10. Evaluate the effects of environmental factors on small business.
11. Apply business concepts and processes to case studies.

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Interpret and Apply Business Terminology
   A. Utilize appropriate business terminology in verbal reports and
written case analyses.

II. Legal Needs of a Business
   A. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the various forms of
business ownership.
   B. Identify which federal and local laws and ordinances impact a
business.
   C. Evaluate how small business can protect its own interest through
appropriate legal coverage.

III. Risks Assessment of Business Opportunities
   A. Evaluate the risk involved in various business opportunities.
   B. Identify ways to eliminate, reduce or transfer the risk associates
with various aspects of starting and/or growing a business.

IV. Evaluate Business Entry Strategies
   A. Develop criteria for evaluating franchises and existing businesses
as entrepreneurial opportunities.
   B. Identifying resources for locating opportunities for purchasing an
existing business.
   C. Assess risks associated with business start-up.

V. Management Skills for Business Start-Up and Growth
   A. Apply traditional management functions to the small business
environment.
   B. Identify entrepreneurial management skills necessary to start and
grow a business.

VI. Capital Needs and Sources
   A. Calculate the financial resources necessary for a business.
   B. Evaluate debt versus equity financing.
   C. Identify resources for obtaining capital.

VII. Marketing Plans
   A. Evaluating a business’ marketing strategy.
   B. Conduct market research for a business (idea).
   C. Plan a marketing and promotional strategy for a business.

VIII. Financial Management
   A. Assess the financial health of a business.
   B. Compare financial ratios to industry standards and make
recommendation for improvement.
   C. Prepare proforma income statement(s) and cash flow statement(s) for
a business.

IX. Human Resource Challenges for Small Businesses
   A. Identify federal and state laws relevant to human resources
management.
   B. Identify ways in which small business can be competitive with big
business in obtaining high quality employees.

X. The Effects of Environmental Factors
   A. Distinguish between environmental factors having significant impact
and those with less significance.
   B. Explain how small businesses can minimize the negative and maximize
the positive impact of environmental factors on their business.
   C. Identify opportunities for business growth and improved
profitability.
   D. Develop solutions to problem situations.

XI. Business Concepts and Processes
   A. Identify critical problems in case studies.
   B. Apply theory and strategies learned in the classroom and internship
to specific case analysis.
   C. Develop solutions to case problems.

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

   Case Study Analysis (Written)      70-80% 
   Case Study Discussions (Oral)      15-20%
   Article Reports                       10%   
   Total                                100%

   Grading Scale:
   A = 90-100%
   B = 80- 89%
   C = 70- 79%
   D = 60- 69%
   F = 59% or less

Caveats: NONE

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.