Summary

The specification is designed to:
• enable candidates to focus on the dynamic nature of the contemporary business world
• provide opportunities for research into topical business issues
• offer opportunities for the development and application of a full range of academic skills
• explore real business situations
• be practical in the application of business concepts
• understand the role of the entrepreneur and business in society

AS outline
At AS-level, the specification introduces candidates to the challenges and issues of starting a business, including financial planning.  It then focuses on how established businesses might improve their effectiveness by making tactical decisions at a functional level:
• Unit 1: Planning and Financing a Business
• Unit 2: Managing a Business.

A2 outline
At A2-level, the specification considers strategies for larger businesses and how managers might measure the performance of the business.  Finally, it considers the effects that external factors can have on businesses and how a business can plan for and manage change, including leadership style and change in business culture:
• Unit 3: Strategies for Success
• Unit 4: The Business Environment and Change.