Program Overview
The Diploma in Business and IT Strategy Alignment equips professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between IT and business strategy. Through four units covering IT's role in competitive advantage, strategic analysis, business structure, and emerging technologies, the program prepares individuals for careers in IT consulting, business analysis, and managerial roles. Delivered live online with continuous assessment and a project, the program supports career advancement and further studies in Computing and Information Technology.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This Diploma in Business and IT Strategy Alignment provides candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the impact of IT systems and services within modern business environments. The program aims to establish a strong relationship between business and IT strategy development and alignment. It is designed for individuals seeking careers as IT consultants, business or systems analysts, or managerial roles seeking to leverage IT for competitive advantage. Ideal candidates should possess basic experience in either Information Technology or Business or aspire to pursue careers in IT or Business-related consultancy or managerial roles. Upon successful completion of the program, CCT College Dublin awards a Professional Certification. This certification confirms the candidate's successful completion of the Diploma in Business and IT Strategy Alignment and supports career advancement through the verification of upskilling. However, it's crucial to note that this program does not lead to an award on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
Outline:
The program comprises four units:
Unit 1: IT and Competitive Advantage
- The role of IT in business
- IT and maintaining a successful competitive advantage
- Open-source software and its role in facilitating successful business IT solutions
Unit 2: Strategic Analysis
- Theories, concepts, and tools of strategic analysis
- Strategy formulation, monitoring, and review
- Macro and Micro business environments
Unit 3: Structure of the Business
- Organizational Structures
- Socio-technical environments (people, processes, and technology interaction)
- Virtual Business, E-Business, and E-Commerce models
- Software and Systems Development
Unit 4: Emerging Technologies
- Mobile integration
- Cloud solutions and options
- Strategic Business Information Systems
- Business intelligence and predictive analysis
- Impact of Big Data on business decision making
Assessment:
The program's assessment involves continuous assessment and a project. Continuous assessment requires candidates to examine the relationship between information technology and competitive advantage and critically evaluate the tools for strategic planning and organizational development. The project involves a critical analysis of a business, its functions and processes, and an assessment of whether emerging technologies can deliver competitive advantage.
Teaching:
The program is delivered live online by an experienced instructor, providing participants with the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and collaborate with peers. The course schedule is designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals, with sessions held one evening per week from 6:30 to 9:30 pm.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue various entry-level and mid-level managerial roles within business or IT environments. They may also choose to engage in further studies in Computing and Information Technology at Irish NQF Levels 6, 7, and 8 to advance their careers.
