Development Proposal Submission Guidelines

This document outlines the submission guidelines for a development proposal. Submissions must be made through Turnitin and accompanied by two hard copies (heat bound). The paper copies should be sent to the specified address provided by the LSC. A declaration/statements page is also required, including statements on originality of work, consent for photocopying and inter-library loan, and title/summary availability to outside organizations.

LONDON SCHOOL OF COMMERCE
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
PROPOSAL - HANDBOOK
SBLC7020
2017-2018

Contents:
1. Introduction Page: 3
2. The Role of the Supervisor 3
3. The Business Development Proposal Seminar Programme 3
4. The Business Development Proposal Seminar Content 4
5. Structure of the Business Development Proposal 6
6. The Research Reflective Report 7
7. Module Descriptor SBLC7020 9
8. Research Ethics and Risk Assessment 17
9. Academic Regulations 19
10. Business Development Proposal Assessment Form 22
11. Research Reflective Report Assessment Form 29
Appendix:
Notice of Candidature Form and Declarations Statements 31
Disclaimer. 32
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1. INTRODUCTION
This handbook sets out the procedures for the preparation and submission of the MBA Business
Development Proposal. It also includes a brief discussion regarding the related Research Methods
module, which is conducted in the second semester. If a successful submission is to be made within
the time available, regular attendance at seminars and scheduled supervisory meetings, and a strict
adherence to a clearly defined programme of work are essential. The procedures set out in this
document are intended to provide maximum support to the student so as to ensure the successful
submission of a Business Development Proposal that meets the University requirements. This
document should be read in conjunction with guidelines provided by The University of Wales Trinity
Saint David (See the current Academic Quality Handbook, http://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/academic-
office/academic-quality-handbook/).
2. THE ROLE OF THE SUPERVISOR
The supervisors play a key role in the research and Business Development Proposal process.
They are a specialist in the subject area chosen by the student and are experienced in the
supervision of Masters Business Development Proposal Analysis. The student needs to have
a close and continuing relationship with the supervisor and use him/her as a source of
advice and support. The Business Development Proposal seminars and student-supervisor
meetings scheduled on a weekly basis in the third semester are aimed at supporting the
development of this crucial relationship.
Students will be assigned a Supervisor in the third semester. They are assigned a supervisor
with expertise in the research area that they have chosen. The supervisor is given a group of
students with a common area of interest.
3.THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL SEMINAR PROGRAMME
Students have 7 seminars and individual student-supervisor meetings during the third
semester. Each session is of three hours duration. Attendance at these sessions is
compulsory and a prerequisite for submission of a Business Development Proposal.
Attendance is monitored by means of the standard attendance register currently in use for
all other courses.
The final Business Development Proposal seminar programme is scheduled in such a way
that 2 weeks before the submission deadline students are expected to provide their
supervisor with a full draft of their Business Development Proposal for review at this point
before the final submission. Their supervisor will then sign a Supervisor Declaration to
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verify that they have seen a final draft. (Students will be unable to submit their Business
Development Proposal without this document.)
 The first hour of the Business Development Proposal Seminar should focus on
discussing issues of common interest to the supervisory group (e.g. How to carry out
and present the literature survey, how to present tables) and permit each student to
present their research progress. A presentation and report should be made every
two or three weeks. This enables supervisors to monitor progress, provide
objectives and motivation for students and minimise the risk of plagiarism. It will
also create a feeling of group cohesion by making them aware of the progress of
others.
 The second two hours of the three hour session is devoted to individual supervisory
tuition. These are scheduled so that each student knows the time at which they will
meet their supervisor each week. Because of numbers, each student will probably
receive an individual meeting of a minimum of 30 minutes in length on a fortnightly
basis. A record is kept by the student and supervisor of the content of the discussion
of each meeting, the agreed actions to be taken by the student before the next
meeting and the time of the next meeting. The Record Form is shown in Appendix B.
This form is completed at the end of each meeting and signed by the supervisor and
the student. A copy is kept in the Attendance Record Register.
 Students who fail to attend the seminars will receive a warning after missing the first
seminar. If a second seminar is missed the student will be called in for a disciplinary
meeting and warning. If there are subsequent failures to attend (unless a medical
certificate is provided), the student may be suspended and required to repeat the
semester or asked to leave the School.
 Monitoring of progress. Students are required to submit written work for the
supervisor’s approval in week 4 (2000 words) and week 8 (7000 words) of the
Business Development Proposal phase and this should be recorded on their
monitoring sheets in the Register. The staged submission of written work is an
essential part of the strategy to reduce plagiarism. In addition to assessing and
advising the student on the academic quality of their work, the supervisor is required
to check for plagiarism and report any cases to the Programme Leader.
4. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL SEMINAR CONTENT
The content of the Business Development Proposal seminars in the third semester may
follow the pattern below, although it may also vary depending on the needs of the particular
group.
Session 1
Review of the relevant University Business Development Proposal Guidelines with emphasis
on Plagiarism, Citation and Referencing Guidelines. Students should be informed about the
importance of correct citation and referencing, and the consequences should their work be
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found to be plagiarized. Details of the submission process should also be explained during
this session. Introduction to the module to students and identifying as suitable business and
set-up relevant information (UK Government and similar websites for small businesses)
Alternative scenarios for the BDP
Session 2
Discussion / Explanation of a sample project. A presentation by each student of his/her
project. Each presentation will be followed by a discussion and supervisors comments
Session 3
Market Research - Primary and secondary (proper identification of customer market,
competition, sales potential). Strategy-Review of Models for Strategic Analysis. Appropriate
Business Models (business configuration that will enable achievement of results through the
selected strategy)
Session 4
Financial Feasibility; Sales Forecasts and profitability; Forecasting Sales; Cost-Volume Profitability
Analysis; Financial statements preparation; Planning capital requirements; Drawing up cash flow,
P&L, Balance Sheets; Investment Appraisal; Project Implementation Schedule
Session 5
Progress reports on the process of data collection. Discussion of problems encountered.
Session 6
Open sessions for review of students’ work and signing off.
Session 7
Open sessions for review of students’ work and signing off.
5.STRUCTURE OF THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL(Recommended)
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Recommended Chapter Structure (to be preceded by a one page executive summary ). Use
this structure as guidance and together with the Marking Scheme/Assessment Form shown
in Section 10.
Chapter Word count guide (approx):
Introduction 2,000 words
Literature Review 4,000 words
Methodology 3,000 words
Data / Results analysis 3,000 words
Discussion, Conclusions
and Recommendations
2,000 words
Appendices Not counted
Total word count 13000 words (+ / - 10%)
You will need to consider:
 The business idea -scenario chosen, aim, strategic fit, feasibility of idea and
important assumptions for success, brief implementation plan
 The Business Idea explained - rationale for the business idea; scenario chosen; Aims
and objectives of the work: structure of the work
 Primary and secondary market research - Feasibility (product/service,
industry/market, organisational, financial feasibility issues; Resource requirement
evaluation
 The Business Model – Strategic Analysis of the new business idea; identification of
sources of competitiveadvantage and sustainability ; selection of strategies for
success; development of appropriate Business Model
 The Business Plan - Business Plan schedule......from raising capital...stage by
stage….setting out key events/ resource requirements for successful operation of
the Business Model; Discussion of critical success/failure factors
The Business Development Proposal Assessment Form is shown in Section 10
6. THE RESEARCH REFLECTIVE REPORT
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The Research Reflective Report is designed to support the student’s self-critical
consideration of the research and related business skills. Students are expected to
demonstrate that they can:-
 Reflect and comment critically on what they have learnt during the MBA programme
and during the process of conducting the research
 Carefully consider the research which they have carried out and critically comment
on this
 Discuss the relationship of the research, research sources and evidence, and
researching activities to the production of the dissertation
 Critically comment on the key areas, examples, sources of the research
 Consider the relationship of the research, and researching, to both the dissertation
and possible future employment opportunities
The Research Reflection Report is not only an academic exercise but also a piece of work
which the student may wish to use in future employment contexts to demonstrate the
ability to consider the importance of research and researching to:-
 business planning,
 business success,
 organisational contexts
 academic and business skills and the contribution which students can make to an
organisation as a result of developing these skills
The Research Reflective Report therefore aims to support the student’s ability to be self-
critical about their research. It also develops the students understanding and application of
the core concepts of business and academic skills while developing their ability to perform
more effectively within organisation in a real world context. The Report therefore
encourages reflection on:-
1) Research Processes
2) The research methodologies considered and applied
3) Research and researching as a problem solving process
4) The identification and discussion of key learning points which could be
applied to other situations.
5) The relationship of research and the dissertation to professional
development opportunities and career development intensions.
Things to think about when completing your Research Reflective Report:-
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The nature of your research and your Major Project
Why is it being done; why are you working on this subject and how significant is it to
you and to future employers?
Plan of your schedules
Have you managed effectively your research and Major Project schedules and are
they logical?
Resources
What resources (i.e. people, evidence, references, and ideas) have you used and
how are you using these? Why are they important?
Methodologies
Are the methods which you have used specified clearly, and are they sufficiently
rigorous? Are data/evidence/literature sources specified and available? Are you
conducting the research and the Major Project in a professional manner? What
analytical frameworks will be used to make sense of the work? Are these
appropriate?
Support and Barrier Issues
Have these been thought through by you? How any barriers to be/being overcome?
Anticipated Benefits to you and to a future employment organisation
What are they? – Knowledge? : Ideas? : Learning Experience? : Efficiency? :
Effectiveness? Financial?: Organisational?: Skills?
How will the project satisfy you?
How will the work contribute to your personal development? How wide a range of
skills and knowledge does it use from your programme? Will it demonstrate that
you have an understanding of your programme subject areas?
Major Project Conclusions: The conclusions which you are forming for your Major
Project – are they based on rigorous reasoning and argument?
Report Writing Skills
Write your reflections, critical views, clearly and simply.
The Research Reflective Report Assessment Form is shown in Section 11.
7. THE MODULE DESCRIPTOR:
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MODULE CODE: SBLC7020
TITLE: Business Development Proposal (Major Project)
DATED: 17/06/2015
LEVEL: 7
CREDITS: 60
JACS CODE: NO
AIM(S)
The module aims to:-
 Provide a critical overview of scenario planning contexts and Case Study Analysis and
their application in the development of a viable Business Development Proposal to a
“live”, presentational, and business launch stage.
 Provide the student with specific opportunities to reflect upon and integrate the
knowledge acquired in the modules forming the early stages of the programme
within an employability and career development focused learning framework
 Provide the student with the opportunity to develop the skills to communicate
proposed solutions and the rationale behind them to an audience of potential
investors, peers, business professionals, and academic mentors;
Provide a formal experience in the preparation and delivery of a business venture
and development proposal and presentation which is suitable for formal
presentation to business investors and for submission for financial investment
support.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon the successful completion of this module, the student should be able to demonstrate
the ability to:
 Conceive and undertake, from initiation to completion, an autonomous and
independently identified Business Development Proposal in an appropriate approved
subject area of enquiry and demonstrate critical expertise, breadth, depth, and
detailed knowledge of the subject area through the use of research, analysis,
synthesis, evaluation and the formation of critical judgments and conclusions and
present these within an approved Business Development Proposal format.
 Demonstrate and articulate a critical awareness and understanding of existing and
emerging developments, theories, applications and insights in the subject chosen for
their Business Development Proposal and critically analyse theories, concepts and
problems, evidence and data, from a variety of sources and contexts using
appropriate methodologies, and conceptual and interpretive frameworks.
 Prepare a critically conceived business development proposal at a professional level
of presentation, incorporating a business case analysis and proposal; a business
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model and business plan; details of the context, vision, features and scenarios for
the business; areas of innovation, invention or change addressed in the Business
Development Proposal and in accordance with the scenario briefs required within
the BDP Module.
INDICATIVE CONTENT
 Selection of scenario
 Statement of assumptions
 Review of current position
 Environmental analysis leading to SWOT analysis
 Statement of future desired position
 Gap analysis
 Bridging the identified gaps
 Requirements for implementation
 Outcomes for key stakeholder groups
 Resource implications
 The budget including investment and working capital requirements
LEARNING AND TEACHING STRATEGY
All Part Two students are provided with an individual Supervisor who has responsibility for
the oversight of the completion of the Major Project. Supervisors provide academic
guidance and oversight of the Major Project within an agreed and scheduled series of
supervisory meetings – discussion sessions. These may be conducted on a face to face, or
through video link, or skype, or internet links, or telephone conference basis.
Supervisors are specifically appointed who have knowledge of the Major Project subject
area which has been identified and agreed with the student by the Programme Director and
the programme academic team. Students are provided with a Major Project Handbook and
are required to attend a specified and scheduled number of tutorial support/discussion
sessions with their supervisor. Student participation in teaching and support sessions may
be extended beyond the formal teaching contact period for the module dependent on the
full or part time nature of the student studies.
Each student is responsible for the preparation of a Major Project Proposal for consideration
by the Programme Director. The Programme Director will be responsible for, and will, in
consultation with the Campus Head, senior campus academic team, and the university link
tutor/moderator (as appropriate and defined by university regulations), agree the proposal,
and will agree identification of an appropriate Major Project supervisor for each Part Two
student. Students may not commence their Major Project until the mode and field of
research, topic and proposal have been agreed by the Programme Director.
The responsibilities for the Learning and Teaching strategy for the supervision and
completion of the Major Project are subject to the regulations and requirements of the
University which are indicated below.
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Responsibilities of the Programme Director
The Programme Director for the MBA programme will be responsible for ensuring that all
Part Two students are provided with written guidelines with regard to:-
 university regulations related to the conduct, undertaking, submission, assessment
completion, and presentation of their Major Project
 required attendance at supervisory tutorials and/or group discussion-tutorial
sessions related to the development of their Major Project and the carrying out of
the research associated with the development and completion of the Major Project;
 study commitment requirements from the student;
 tutorial and supervisory arrangements including the schedule of calendar tutorial
sessions and other teaching and supervisory support sessions;
 frameworks for meetings and general expectations (see Section 7.17.6 of the
university regulations);
 ensuring that the implementation of the guidelines is monitored on a regular basis;
 attending all examination boards relating to the programme;
 ensuring that the nature of the tutorial supervision is made explicit in the
Programme of Study Handbook.
Responsibilities of the Supervisor
All full time and part time Part Two students are allocated an appointed supervisor who has
responsibility for the individual supervision of the student throughout the period of study
for their Major Project module.
Supervisors provide an allocated number of hours of individual supervision, and group
supervision, which is defined within the university specifications for masters level
supervisory responsibilities. (See below). Supervisors for Part Two of the programme are
based in the campus at which the student is registered for their programme.
Supervisors are allocated a maximum number of supervisees according to the university
specifications for supervision. Supervisors may vary in their background and academic
and/or professional focus dependent on the nature and choice of Major Project identified
by, and agreed with, the student. Students may also be supported by teaching staff that
have a particular area of experience in for example Business Development areas or sector
specific areas and the programme team
The Major Project supervisors will be responsible for:-
 encouraging the candidate to explore a range of possible research topics within the
area chosen for study and indicated in the proposed title;
 ensuring that Major Project proposals are feasible in terms of the timescale and
resources available;
 providing appropriate advice and guidance in relation to the candidate’s initial Major
Project proposal;
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 ensuring that the student is provided with advice and guidance with the aim of
facilitating the production of a Major Project of the requisite standard for a taught
master’s Degree by:-
o providing support with the selection of an appropriate mode of Major Project
option selected from one of the following – a Dissertation, a Business
Development Proposal, an Integrated Case Study;
o providing guidance on the nature, scope, focus, identification of the Major
project field of enquiry and the nature of the definitive research topic;
o assisting in the clarification of aims and objectives;
o recommending appropriate research sources and methods;
o providing guidance with the structuring and presentation of the dissertation;
o generally supporting, encouraging and motivating the student’s research.
o ensuring that appropriate ethical approval is obtained at every stage of
preparing the Major Project;
o ensuring that the student’s initial choice of mode of presentation and Major
Project proposal and field of enquiry is refined as necessary in consultation
with the student;
o agreeing a timetable with the student for the submission of work and the
scheduling of regular meetings (see Section 7.17.6 of university regulations);
o keeping a careful record of all such formal meetings, including dates, action
agreed and deadlines set;
o recording a summary of the outcomes of each meeting on the Postgraduate
Taught Supervision Record Form;
o ensuring that the record of the meetings and the record form is signed by
both the supervisor and the student and that a full record is kept of all
tutorial and support advice and of any other matters arising with reference to
the carrying out of the Major Project by each student;
o ensuring that work is returned according to specified deadlines and
accompanied by constructive comment and feedback;
o Ensuring that Major Projects are not accepted for assessment unless they
have undergone a process of tutorial supervision.
Responsibilities of the Student
The student who is submitting a Major Project will be responsible for:
 ensuring that the Major Project produced is first and foremost his/her own
work, albeit achieved with benefit of advice and guidance from the
supervisor;
 agreeing a timetable with the supervisor for the submission of work and the
scheduling of regular meetings;
 keeping a careful record of all such formal meetings, including dates, action
agreed and deadlines set;
 ensuring that a summary of the outcomes of each meeting is recorded on the
university Postgraduate Taught Supervision Record Form and signed by both
the supervisor and the student;
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 making a considered case to the supervisor if requesting additional meetings;
 ensuring that their work is appropriately edited, particularly with reference to
accuracy of referenced sources, grammar, spelling and critique, argument
and the formation of required conclusions as appropriate to the Major
Project;
 ensuring that any relevant material resulting from his/her research, such as
transcripts, are included in the dissertation or are presented as appendices;
 Completing the work within the agreed framework, with any problems
relating to late or unsatisfactory submission being brought to the supervisor’s
attention in writing as soon as possible.
Major Project Teaching and Supervisory and Tutorial Support Entitlement
Major Projects are benchmarked against the university regulations for the undertaking and
completion of a masters level dissertation/major project. The requirements include the
following:-
 Major Projects shall not normally be accepted for assessment unless they
have undergone a process of tutorial supervision. The nature and demands of
such tutorial supervision shall be made explicit in the Programme of Study
Handbook or other formal information provided for students.
 A Major Project study and completion contract should be prepared for each
student prior to and confirmed at the start of Part Two in order to formally
agree the choice of mode of presentation for the Major Project, the terms of
the Major Project supervision arrangements and the time scales for
completion and scope of the Major Project .
 The student and the supervisor are expected to form an agreement based on
partnership, with both parties providing inputs and having responsibilities.
This section is intended to offer guidance to students and to supervisors
regarding the amount of support that a supervisor can be expected to
provide during the course of a student’s Major Project.
 Students must be provided with clear guidelines regarding the assessment
criteria for the Major Project.
 The total amount of supervision should not normally exceed 25 hours,
including any preliminary work in identifying a Major Project topic, field of
enquiry, focus for the Major Project. Tutors are required to keep a record of
the supervision time spent with each student, using the university model
Postgraduate Taught Supervision Record Form This will include time spent on
providing support by different means including phone, e-mail, letter, skype or
other form of communications and supervisory support.
 A proportion of the total amount of Major Project supervision as specified in
university regulations, may take the form of group tutorials. Such supervision
should not exceed 15 hours in total.
 The maximum amount of individual Major Project supervision should not
exceed 10 hours per student.
 Within the Major Project contract, it should be agreed that students are
required to report to their supervisor at regular intervals, and are also
13

required to produce draft versions of the Major Project, or reports on
progress and activity.
 Supervisors are required to monitor student progress on a Postgraduate
Taught Major Project Supervision Record Form, reporting absences from
tutorials and taking any appropriate subsequent action.
The allocation of teaching to deliver the module is:
Activity type Hours Percentage
Scheduled learning; 25 4.2
Independent learning 575 95.8
Placement learning 0 0
TOTAL 600 100%
ASSESSMENT
Assessment Component 1 – 20%
Coursework: - Research Reflective Report - 2000 words maximum
(In Formal Template Presentation Format)
Assessment Component 2 – 80%
Coursework: - Business Development Proposal
12000-13000 words maximum
Assessment Summary
EDUCATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (ESD)
Does the module contribute to ESD? Yes
If yes please provide brief details (no more than 100 words):
The module contributes to sustainability in the following ways:-
 The module is designed to enable students to engage with their own sustainable
career and professional development while ensuring that this is able to be
evaluated within the demands of continuing approaches towards career
competencies, capability and future career enhancement.
 The module is also designed to be delivered within the international market and
to encourage the development of graduate attributes aimed at developing
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Activity type Percentage
Written exam 0
Coursework 100
Practical 0
TOTAL 100%

learning activities based on real world and international scenarios and problem
identification/solving; working with diversity in cultures and with differing
perspectives; critical thinking, reflection, and appreciating differing international
perspectives and viewpoints.
 The module contributes to Sustainability Statement – 1 Futures thinking; 2.
Critical and Creative Thinking; 3 Participation and Participatory Learning; 4.
Systemic Thinking; 5. Partnerships
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Researchers. Routledge Falmer.
 Wolcott HF (2009). Writing Up Qualitative Research (3rd edition). Sage.
 Yin RK (2013).Case Study Research: Design and Methods (5th edition). Sage.
Journals
Websites
8. RESEARCH ETHICS AND RISK ASSESSMENT ( ETHICS FORM – PG2-E1 available at:
http://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/academic-office/appendices-and-forms/ )
Your research must give due respect to current research ethics which must ensure the
consideration of the following issues:
 Scientific objectivity
 privacy-impartial reporting
 confidentiality
 findings reported fairly and accurately
It is absolutlely necessary to ensure that you have undertaken a risk analysis prior to
commencing a research project at any level.
This concerns your own safety in all respects, and full security and ethical treatment of your
subjects (sources of evidence, by interview, questionnaire survey, business, government and
agency concerns as well the rights and regard of individuals who may be contacted or whose
data may be used during the course of the project).
The information below requires you to think, to consider how your gathering of data,
approaches and any use made of sources, and yourself may be influenced in the course of
the work.
This includes
- respect for sources and their owners intentions and requirements for
them, as well as
- your own personal safety and acknowledgement of the work of any contributors,
and
- the respect for the anonymity of any providers of information as well as the
17

acknowledgement where their permission to use their evidence has been
agreed, and on what terms.
Please submit the Ethics Form as a part of your research proposal. Check each item,
consider its relevance.
Please seek advice from your supervisor if there are any queries.
Eg:
You may be at risk in situations of meeting people.
Others may be at risk in situations of your approraching them for data, and in terms
of restricted information that you must only use on careful
agreement with them.
You must allow informants (subjects) to withdraw from investigations if they wish
You must endanger neither yourself or your informants in the process of
The work.
You must not deceive any informants.
NB:- ALL QUESTIONNAIRES THAT ARE BEING SENT EXTERNALLY SHOULD BE CHECKED AND
HAVE THE PRIOR AUTHORITY OF THE DISSERTATION SUPERVISOR BEFORE BEING SENT
OUT.
Ethics research approval form
Using the Ethics form, you must identify the main risk element regarding your health and
safety and assess the potential risk. Risks may be categorised as tolerable,
Moderate, substantial or severe. Indicate the actions that you have taken
To reduce the risk and then indicate the residual risk.
 Tolerable risk is Acceptable.
 Moderate risk must be managed carefully.
 Substaintial or Severe risks which are serious and likely to happen are not acceptable
and you should not proceed.
9. ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
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The rules relating to Progression from Part 1 taught modules to the Dissertation in Part 2,
and to Final Awards, can be found in the Academic Quality Handbook Section 6.8
(http://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/academic-office/academic-quality-handbook/)
MBA Dissertation: Students are required to submit 2 typed and bound hard copies and one
soft copy on Turnitin. This should be submitted to the Exams Office on the submission
deadline. One copy should include a set of forms available on the student portal at the
beginning of the third semester. The second copy should include the Student Declaration
Form verifying that the dissertation submitted is their original work.
9.1 Procedure for Non-Submission
Work cannot be accepted more than 1 week after the submission deadline and must be
recorded as a non-submission. A dissertation that is not submitted by the deadline date and
time will be considered a fail by non-submission. Late submission penalties must be applied
to work that is not submitted by the published deadline. Work that is submitted up to 1
week late will be capped at the bare minimum pass mark (50% for Level 7). Students who
do not submit due to exceptional circumstances may request that those circumstances are
recognised by the University. Claims for Extenuating Circumstances are judged on clear and
transparent criteria as set out in the regulations (see Academic Quality Handbook section
13.2).
9.2 Extensions
Members of staff of the University may not grant extensions. A student seeking an extension
may apply with Extenuating Circumstances to the UWTSD EC panel, via UWTSD Academic
Office.Exceptional circumstances usually relate to illness or personal tragedy and all
extension applications must be supported by documentation.(see Academic Quality
Handbook - section 13).
9.3 Suspected Unfair Practice Prior To Submission
If a supervisor suspects that a student’s work has been plagiarised prior to formal
submission they should report this to the Programme Leader or Course Administrator
immediately. A meeting will then be arranged with the supervisor and student where they
will be informed of these suspicions and asked to justify their work. The procedures for
suspected unfair practice after submission will be explained to the student so that they are
given the opportunity to revise their work or make a decision about submission. The
academic and cost implications for non-submission will also be explained so that the student
can make an informed decision about how they wish to proceed. In all cases where there is
an issue of non-submission, this decision must be taken by the student only.
9.4 Unfair Practice and Plagiarism
19

The University defines unfair practice as ‘any act, intentional or otherwise, whereby a
person may obtain for himself/herself or for another, an unpermitted advantage…’.
Committing unfair practice in assessment is one of the most serious offences in academic
life, and its consequences can be severe. It undermines the integrity of scholarship,
research, and of the examination and assessment process.
Plagiarism is one type of unfair practice. Plagiarism is passing off, or attempting to pass off,
another’s work as your own. It includes copying the words, ideas, images or research results
of another without acknowledgement, whether those words etc. are published or
unpublished. It is plagiarism, for example, to copy the work of another student, of a
member of staff or a published article without crediting the author. Persons who allow their
work to be plagiarised are also guilty. Plagiarism is also submitting work for an assignment
that has been submitted for another assignment before without acknowledging that this is
the case – this is self-plagiarism.
The guidance that follows explains what is meant by plagiarism, describes the University’s
regulations for dealing with it, and provides help in avoiding it. All students are asked to
submit an electronic copy of their work. This is so that the work can be checked against the
database of the UK Higher Education
Plagiarism Detection Service, Turnitin. Your tutors have the right to do so since, in
University Regulations registering as a student at the University you have consented to the
submission of your work, if necessary, to Turnitin.
9.5 How can I avoid plagiarism?
Coursework, dissertations, or creative work are meant to be your own original work.
Obviously you will use the work of others. Not only is this inevitable, it is expected. All
scholarship builds on the work of others. The important thing to remember is always to
acknowledge your sources (see Appendix 2 for additional guidance). All Schools will provide
sessions on referencing and plagiarism but as a general rule of thumb observe the following
guidelines:
• Anything that is copied or quoted from another source, including electronic
sources such as the internet, must be in quotation marks and attributed to the
original author. This may be in the body of the text or as a footnote. Full details of a
source may be contained in a bibliography. Whatever method is used, always
acknowledge your source and give full details of it (i.e. title, author, and page
number).
• Synthesising the work of others involves putting their ideas into your words. This is
fine but you must acknowledge your source. This can be done in a number of ways
depending on the context. For example: 'Hart maintains that...’ 'Hart provides
evidence for..’: 'It is argued, or submitted by Hart that...’ Then give the source of the
original work.
• Where you are generally indebted for your ideas to one or two main sources, this
can be a bit trickier. If the ideas or the way they are presented come from one or
20

two sources, make this clear. Do the same if they come from lectures. It is important
not to claim originality where it does not exist but to indicate in general where the
information comes from.
The golden rule is; 'if in doubt, provide references'. Consult your tutors if you have any
problems, in particular with the method of citing books and articles, which may differ from
subject to subject. There are no penalties for asking for advice and guidance; there are
severe penalties for plagiarism!
9.6 What are the penalties?
Plagiarism by students in coursework, other forms of continuous assessment, examinations,
dissertations or theses will be dealt with according to the Unfair Practice Procedure and
regulations. The same regulations apply to any other form of unfair practice. These
regulations can be found in Chapter 7 of the AQH at http://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/academic-
office/
The University applies a range of penalties, varying in severity, where unfair practice is
confirmed. All tutors are required to be vigilant in the detection of plagiarism and are
required to take action in all cases where it is suspected.
With every piece of coursework you present for assessment, you will be required to fill in
a pro-forma stipulating that the work is your own original work. Your work may not be
University Regulations marked if you do not include a plagiarism statement with your
assessment. It is your responsibility to make sure that the appropriate form is included with
your work. Copies of the form are included in this handbook (see Appendix 3).
10. BDP ASSESSMENT
21

Coursework: - Business Development Proposal - 12000-13000 words maximum
Your Business Development Proposal(80% weighted) will be assessed using the following
marking sheet.
LONDON SCHOOL OF COMMERCE
MBA
2017 - 2018
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL ASSESSMENT
Name of Student:
Title of Proposal:
Date:
First Examiner:
Second Examiner:
Guideline Criteria for Assessment Possible % 1st 2nd Agreed
i) Introduction
15
22

ii) Literature review
iii) Research Methodology
iv) Analysis of results
v) Conclusions
/recommendations
vi) Presentation
20
20
20
15
10
100%
(i) INTRODUCTION/ RATIONALE
(15%)
Marks will be awarded for:
Title
Abstract
Over all
coherence/justification
Rationale for the business
idea
Scenario Chosen
Clear aims and objectives
Background to subject area
Structure of the Project
COMMENTS:
1st Marker:
2nd Marker:
23

Grade:
ii) LITERATURE REVIEW
(20%)
Marks will be awarded for:
Range of literature on that
industry & appropriate use and
review of literature
Evaluation and review of both
theoretical and secondary
research data about industry
size, growth rate, major players
/ competitor analysis
Business idea explained in
details
Marketing mix analysis
Segmentation
Target Market
Positioning
Thorough knowledge and
comprehension of the industry
Understanding of relevant
concepts and theories about
the business model
Discussion of conceptual and
theoretical issues-Business
model canvas
Summary and clear
understanding of principal
issues relevant to topic
COMMENTS:
1st Marker:
2nd Marker:
Grade:
24

iii) RESEARCH METHODS
(20%)
Marks will be awarded for:
Selection of appropriate
models/ tools /concepts and
theories for doing strategic
analysis
Selection of clear aims and
objectives
Selection of appropriate
research methodology
Theoretical and applied
research methods knowledge
Effective survey techniques if
applicable
Primary / Secondary market
research
Feasibility ( Product/ Service/
Industry/ Market/
Organisational /Financial
feasibility issues)
Effective Sample framework ( if
applicable)
Critical evaluation of such
methodology
Clear understanding of
research limitations
COMMENTS:
1st Marker:
2nd Marker:
Grade:
25

iv) ANALYSIS OF RESULTS
(20%)
Marks will be awarded for:
Clear presentation of results
based on the strategic
analysis / Findings from data
collected (Primary / Secondary
data)
Appropriate analytical
interpretation of results
Application of results to
research objectives and
literature
Identification of sources of
competitive advantage and
sustainability
Selection of strategies for
success
Development of appropriate
Business Model for the
business.
Appropriate synthesis and
evaluation of research results,
inferences and implication
COMMENTS:
1st Marker:
2nd Marker:
Grade:
v) CONCLUSIONS /
RECOMMENDATIONS (15%)
COMMENTS:
1st Marker:
26

Marks will be awarded for:
Logical and clearly structured
conclusions
Business plan schedule from
raising capital stage by state/
setting out key events / resource
requirements for successful
operation of the business model
Appropriate synthesis between
research and literature
Effective completion of aims
and objectives set
Evaluation of main concepts
and issues and discussion of
critical success / failure factors
Recommendations
Potential applications of
findings to future
management/policy or research
issues
2nd Marker:
Grade:
vi) PRESENTATION (10%)
Marks will be awarded for:
Grammar, syntax,
Structure & layout
referencing systems
visual material (where
applicable)
COMMENTS:
1st Marker:
2nd Marker:
27

Grade:
OVERALL COMMENTS:
1st Marker:
2nd Marker:
1st MARKER SIGNATURE: DATE:
2nd MARKER SIGNATURE: DATE:
28

Coursework: - Research Reflective Report - 2000 words maximum
Your Business Development Proposal Research Reflection Report (20% weighted) will be
assessed using the following marking sheet.
11. THE RESEARCH REFLECTION REPORT ASSESSMENT FORM
Student Name:……………………………………………………………………(as on passport)
Student ID Number:………………………………………………………………
RESEARCH REFLECTION REPORT (should have the details given below) Marks
Research Methods and Processes:-
How and why - have you chosen/decided on the research methods and processes which you are
using/have used for the development of your Major Project?
I learnt how to conduct the PESTLE analysis along with that of the SWOT analysis that
would help me in understanding the structure of business of Graucob’s store. The SWOT analysis
furnished important information about the strategic positioning of Graucob’ store and helped me
in understanding how the strengths and opportunities can be utilised by a business for its
successful running. Understanding the intricacies of PESTLE analysis became clear to me in the
course of working on this assignment and how they have a grave impact on the food industry. I
understood how to write about the structure of business of a sandwich outlet and the factors
important for operating as a successful micro business.
How would you describe these to :
1)a reader of your Major Project and/or
(2) a future employer
(Max. 275 words)
According to me, the PESTLE method and SWOT analysis are immensely helpful in conducting
research on a topic of business and leads to useful results.
15
Literature and Sources:-
1)What are the most important theories/literature sources /evidence sources which you are using
to justify your research and your Major Project
2) Why are these sources important and fundamental to your work?
I learnt about the primary and secondary method of collection of data and how effective
they can be in assimilation of important information. I understood how to analyse the journals,
books and databases that can help me in researching the sandwich industry as a whole. I learnt
about the importance of local sourcing that in turn helped me in carrying out the primary research.
Primary research made use of questionnaires and interviews. I learnt about the different methods
of survey that can help me in gleaning important information about the topic of my assignment.
15
29

These sources are important as it helped me in collecting important information and helped me in
pursuing this assignment.
(Max. 275 words)
Your Knowledge:-
What key areas of knowledge have you gained from undertaking your research and the Major
Project?
Indicate why these are so important to you?
Max. (200 words)
I furnished important information regarding how to gauge about the interest of the respondents
towards the questionnaire as anyone who was not interested in the survey would have a casual
attitude towards it that will in turn produce erroneous results
10
Your Learning:-
What are the most important aspects/examples of learning and/or skills which you have gained
from:
(1) undertaking the MBA programme,
(2) following through your research, and
(3) applying your knowledge and what you have learnt in your Major Project
Max. (200 words)
I learnt how to write down the business time plan and the way the things should be planned so
that the business can start successfully at a scheduled time. I got to know after a thorough
research how to write the literature review that would include a critical analysis of the food
industry and the market analysis of the UAE bakery and cereal. I got to know regarding how to
write down the conceptual framework that illuminated me about different aspects of the report.
10
Your Critical Thinking and your ideas:-
In carrying out your research, your analysis, your evaluation of evidence, and in identifying or
proposing conclusions ,what has been the most important discovery, or piece of evidence, or
theory, or viewpoint, or critical idea, or critical addition to your knowledge, or other item of
importance? and why?
(Max. 200 words)
I learnt how the production cost can be broken down into different compartments and
about the policies of stock holding that has an important bearing on the quality of products. I
learnt about the different marketing strategies that can be employed for the successful running of
the business. I gathered knowledge regarding how to write down the distribution methods about
10
30

the Graucob’s Store.
Barriers met:-
What were the main difficulties and barriers which you were faced with in:-
(1) undertaking your research, and
(2) completing your Major project
(Max. 200 words)
I faced obstacle due to the fact that some people were not that keen in the primary method of
data collection. I faced difficulty on account of the fact that there was lack of conscientious
response which made it difficult for me in deducing conclusions. Overall it was a good experience
that helped me to learn about important aspects of research and this would also help me in future
in my assignments.
10
Your Professional Development
What are the most important business and/or management skill(s) or academic idea(s) or lesson(s) which
you have learnt from undertaking your research and your Major Project? and why ?
(Max. 200 words)
I learnt how to carry out the pestle and swot analysis in relation to the business of Graucob’s store and
whether the business can create a distinct impression on the customers. I learnt how to analyse the external
factors and what impact it will have on the growth of the business. I also learnt about the primary along with
secondary method in relation to data collection and how effective they can prove to be in assimilating
important information.
10
Objectives:-
Based on your Research and the work which you have done in the MBA Programme and its use in
your Major Project, what were your objectives and how far have the objectives of your major
project been achieved?
(Max. 250 words)
The main purpose of carrying out this research was to find out about the feasibility in relation to
opening a sandwich outlet that would specialize in the area of gourmet wraps along with that of
sandwiches. We have been successful in finding out that the business plan in relation to Graucob’ s
store was a practical idea that would succeed if it was successfully carried out.
10
Findings and Outcomes:-
How useful and/or feasible are the findings, recommendations, conclusions, or outcomes of your
Major Project to you and/or to a future Employer?
10
31

You must justify your answer with specific examples.
(Max. 200 words)
The project has very well proved that Graucob’s business would be successful but certain issues
can crop up that should be resolved in order to be successful. The timeline that is being set in
relation to the objectives proved to be a hindrance and the researcher could not anticipate some
segments within the project. A broader time frame is essential for the successful completion of the
task. The procedure of generating a financial forecast should start in the beginning of the year to
avoid any kind of clash.
TOTAL 100
Appendix.
NOTICE OF CANDIDATURE FORM
The following form needs to be completed and submitted with your dissertation. A copy is
available on the Moodle page for the dissertation module:
EXAMINATION OF TAUGHT MASTER'S DEGREE DISSERTATION:
NOTICE OF CANDIDATURE FORM
Please complete this form when your dissertation is ready to be submitted for examination.
Surname/Family Name............................................................. Date of Birth.......................................
Forenames (in full)..................................................................................Title.......................................
Institution Number (if known)...............................................................................................................
Title of Degree (eg MA, MSc, MBA etc).................................................................................................
Title of Taught Master's degree scheme followed (eg Equine Studies) .................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................................................
Department/School in which study pursued...........................................................................................
Name of your Supervisor.......................................................................................................................
Full Title of dissertation submitted.........................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................................
Please indicate that the following will all be submitted along with this form:
two permanently bound copies of your dissertation plus 1 electronic copy submitted via
Turnitin;
32

SUBMISISION OF DISSERTATIONS
Final Business Development Proposal submission
Proposals to be submitted via Turnitin, together with
2 paper copies (Heat bound).
Paper copies to be forwarded to :
LSC to complete address here:
Declaration/Statements page
DECLARATION
This work has not previously been accepted in substance for any degree and is not
being concurrently submitted in candidature for any degree.
Signed ...................................................................... (candidate)
Date ........................................................................
STATEMENT 1
This work is the result of my own investigations, except where otherwise stated.
Other sources are acknowledged by footnotes giving explicit references. A
bibliography is appended.
Signed ..................................................................... (candidate)
Date ........................................................................
STATEMENT 2
I hereby give consent for my work, if accepted, to be available for photocopying and for
inter-library loan, and for the title and summary to be made available to outside
organisations.
Signed ..................................................................... (candidate)
Date ........................................................................
33

Disclaimer. This document was published in ……………. 2017 and was correct at that time.
The Department* reserves the right to modify any statement if necessary, make variations
to the content or methods of delivery of programmes of study, to discontinue
programmes, or merge or combine programmes if such actions are reasonably considered
to be necessary by UWTSD. Every effort will be made to keep disruption to a minimum,
and to give as much notice as possible.
Please note: the term ‘Department’ is used to refer to ‘Departments’ ‘Centre’s’, ‘Schools’
and approved Partners.
Good luck, work hard and we wish you all success!
34

Bibliography:
Day, C.F., 2015. Vision statement.
Hand, E., 2015. Thinking inside the box. Science, 348(6231), pp.176-177.
Schaper, M.T., Volery, T., Weber, P.C. and Gibson, B., 2014. Entrepreneurship and small
business.
Thomas, D.F., Gudmundson, D., Turner, K. and Suhr, D., 2014. Business Plan Competitions
and Their Impact on New Ventures' Business Models. Journal of Strategic Innovation and
Sustainability, 10(1), p.34.
Ward, J., 2016. Keeping the family business healthy: How to plan for continuing growth,
profitability, and family leadership. Springer.
Fuller, G.W., 2016. New food product development: from concept to marketplace. CRC
Press.
Armstrong, G., Kotler, P., Harker, M. and Brennan, R., 2015. Marketing: an introduction.
Pearson Education.
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