Business & Management MA(SocSci)/BSc/LLB/MA
Performance Improvement through Systems Thinking and Simulation MGT4104
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: Adam Smith Business School
- Credits: 15
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Semester 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
The course is built on three interrelated components: soft operational research methods, performance measurement systems, and the application of simulation to improve operational performance. The first component includes Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and Strategic Options Development and Analysis (SODA). The performance measurement component covers developing strategy maps and defining Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), while the simulation part utilises the software Simul8. These three components are closely connected, providing both a systematic and analytical perspective on managing and improving performance within organisations. Discussions on SSM and SODA as well as on performance measurement systems are designed to develop students' independent and critical thinking, while encouraging creativity in approaching complex business situations. An important element of these topics is the ability to communicate and accommodate the views of diverse stakeholders, as well as to articulate complex ideas clearly for different audiences. Within the context of performance measurement, students are also expected to consider sustainability issues and their relevance to business practice. The simulation component of the course equips students with practical skills in using software tools to explore and address business-related problems.
Timetable
9 x 2 hour workshops
1 x 3 hour workshop (1 hour of which for demonstration)
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
None
Assessment
1. Oral assessment & presentation; Group; 15 minutes; 25%; ILOs 1, 4.
2. Project output; Individual; Simulation model; 1900 words + simulation file; 75%; ILOs 1-3.
Course Aims
This course aims to provide students with current and practical knowledge and skills to apply problem structuring and modelling methods for measuring and improving performance.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
1. Discuss the use of soft operational research methods to structure and model complex organisational situations.
2. Develop an integrated performance measurement system to enhance organisational performance.
3. Use simulation modelling and generate data-driven recommendations to enhance operational performance.
4. Utilise the opportunity to work effectively as a team to structure and analyse a service performance management scenario.