You have four resources for this course. Use all of them together — they are designed to complement each other and help you truly understand strategic management, not just memorize it.
The University of Minnesota open textbook is your primary reading. It is completely free — Dr. Polly chose it specifically to save you money. Some content may be slightly older but the core concepts and frameworks are solid and timeless.
Download it, save it to your device, and read the assigned chapters before each module.
Dr. Polly has updated the slides with current, real-world information that goes beyond the textbook. The slides are your most important resource — they reflect exactly what is expected in assignments and quizzes.
Available on Canvas for each chapter (Chapters 1–10). Download and review them carefully before each assignment.
MP4 video presentations accompany each chapter to help you understand the material in a more engaging way. If you find yourself confused after reading the slides, watch the video — hearing the explanation often makes concepts click.
Available on Canvas alongside the slides for each module.
This website is extremely helpful for learning how to actually apply the strategic analysis tools — PESTEL, Porter's Five Forces, VRIO, Value Chain, and more. It shows you step-by-step how to use each framework with real examples.
Use it especially when working on your external analysis and final project assignments.
Don't rely on just one resource. Read the eBook chapter first to get the big picture, then study the slides carefully for details, watch the video if something is unclear, and use strategicmanagementinsight.com when you start your assignments. Using all four together is the best way to succeed in this course.