Module: Advanced Operational Modelling for Business

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).

As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Date posted: September 2024

Module Title	Advanced Operational Modelling for Business
Module Code	MT319 (ITS) / MNA1012 (Banner)
Faculty	DCU Business School	School	DCU Business School
Module Co-ordinator	James Byrne
Module Teachers	Paul Davis, Regina Connolly, William Schofield
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	Not Available
Co-requisite	Not Available
Compatibles	Not Available
Incompatibles	Not Available

None
Array

Description

Data models and in particular spreadsheet models have become an essential tool for business with applications in every business function and process. The aim of this module is to learn how to develop reliable and effective quantitative data and spreadsheet models and to use them appropriately to support analysis and decision-making for common business problems.

Learning Outcomes

1. Define what is meant by data and spreadsheet models in the context of the business environment.
2. Explain the role of spreadsheets and data models in the analysis and decision-making processes of different functions such as operations, finance, marketing.
3. Discuss the benefits, limitations, and risks of data and spreadsheet models in the business environment.
4. Outline the steps necessary to ensure professional development of data and spreadsheet models.
5. Construct spreadsheet models, using Excel, which can be used to solve business information systems problems.
6. Develop spreadsheet models using best practise that can be used by managers as decision support systems and/or management information systems.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	10	A lecture will present the essential ideas and core concepts pointing students towards resources where they can get further information. Students are expected to prepare for each lecture by, for example, reading materials suggested by the lecturer.
Lecture	10	Assistance in the computer laboratory on aspects of spreadsheeet model development
Independent Study	55	Students are expected to study the recommended textbooks and journal articles, and are encouraged to read further around the topics in each module. Such private study will include preparation for specific classes â€“ for example to discuss a case, and other study related to assignments or to consolidate the material from lectures
Assignment Completion	50	Students will be asked to prepare spreadsheet models
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Introduction
Introduction to information systems, data modelling, decision making and business problems

Business problems
Identifying business problems and how they may be solved using a data or spreadsheet model.

Decision Support Systems
Define when DSS are used and how they can help solve business problems.

Spreadsheet applications
Modelling common business problems such as in finance, operations, marketing, etc. using Excel spreadsheets.

Model planning and development
Best practice in the development of spreadsheet models and tools used to aid in the development.

Advanced Excel Modelling
Advanced excel features that can be used in DSS and spreadsheet models.

Spreadsheet Presenting
Charts, documentation and presentation

Tools for sensitivity analysis and scenario development
What-if, goal seek, optimisation, scenarios

Larger models
Linking and referencing 3-D worksheets

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown
Assignment	Design, Build and Test Spreadsheet Model	30%
In Class Test	Spreadsheet Model Development	40%	Once per semester

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories: Resit category 1: A resit is available for both* components of the module. Resit category 2: No resit is available for a 100% continuous assessment module. Resit category 3: No resit is available for the continuous assessment component where there is a continuous assessment and examination element.
* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a Continuous Assessment/Examination split; where the module is 100% continuous assessment, there will also be a resit of the assessment
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List

Robert T. Grauer, Keith Mulbery, Judy Scheeren: 2004, Exploring Microsoft Excel 2007, Prentice Hall,
Albright & Winston: 0, Spreadsheet Modelling and Applications (Essentials of Practical Management Science), Thomson,
John F. Barlow: 0, Excel Models for Business and operations Management, 2nd Edition, Wiley,

Other Resources

29491, 0, Relevant articles will be recommended during the course,