Digital Business Innovation and Transformation master degree programme

Become a change agent! After your master degree, you'll lead your company into the future. You'll be able to coordinate and direct digital transformations, no matter what the industry. Because the future is digital.

The part-time master programme focuses on key business administration skills combined with expertise in digitalisation and innovation, as well as the ability to understand, motivate and lead people.

The degree programme: Master of Arts in Business (MA)

Big data, the Internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence, blockchain technology and robotics: just a few examples of digital innovations that are permanently changing the rules of the game for organisations.

Companies must be well-prepared for new challenges in order to ensure their continued success and take advantage of the opportunities offered by digitalisation. Digital transformation shouldn't be a mere buzzword – it has to be reflected in the strategy, structures, corporate culture, and processes of a company.

And this is exactly what our programme prepares you for. As a graduate, you'll act as an ambassador for digitalisation and innovation: you'll see digitalisation as an opportunity and be able to show companies where potential for networking and ongoing development lies.

The master programme equips you with the skills you need to successfully manage digitalisation processes in companies. A powerful combination: business administration, digital and data expertise, and an understanding of the behavioural and sociological aspects of transformation.

Since digitalisation continues to increasingly connect the world, the degree stands out for its strong international focus. Just a few examples: English as the language of instruction, countless international teachers, and the opportunity to spend semester 3 at one of our 140 partner universities.

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Studium Digital Business Innovation and Transformation - Studierende reden miteinander

What makes the degree unique is our holistic approach to digitalisation. On the one hand, critical and analytical thinking are needed to fully exploit existing processes digitally. On the other hand, creativity is called for to explore potential and develop, test and, if necessary, integrate innovative products, services, and business models into the company. We call this process transformation. The challenge lies less in mastering the new digital technologies or ensuring profitability, but rather in bringing the human factor to the fore and incorporating it into the process. Our focus here is on customer-centric innovation using approaches such as design thinking, as well as on human-computer interaction, human development and communications, change and transformation management, leadership, and ethics.

Programme director Roger Hage

A formula for success: theoretical knowledge + practical experience

The programme is built on three pillars.

1

The business basics

Semesters 1-4

The programme starts by covering business basics with a special emphasis on the strategic focus of companies. You'll deal specifically with corporate structure and prepare yourself to assume management tasks in digital settings.

You'll develop a deep understanding of the importance of continuous optimisation processes, but risk management is also an important element of the curriculum. You'll learn how to implement proactive company-wide risk management systems. In addition, you'll become familiar with tools for identifying and assessing risks. This will enable you to objectively assess opportunities and risks and therefore reach sustainable corporate decisions. Since technologies are developing rapidly, often exponentially, the degree prepares you for future scenarios and building corporate foresight: you learn how to continuously develop forward-looking strategies to prepare for future contingencies.

2

The core topics

Semesters 1-4

Innovation and digitisation have already become important corporate success factors and will become increasingly decisive for companies in the future. During your studies you'll learn how to embed these elements in your company and successfully transform existing processes. After graduation, you'll be excellently positioned to initiate and implement a transition from analogue to digital organisational structures.

In other words, you'll focus on how to make companies sustainable and competitive in the long term. You'll become an expert in ongoing change processes.

Digitalisation is a new discipline and as such is unable to tap into widely proven best practices. You will therefore learn how to experiment creatively and skilfully, and how to make evidence-based decisions, i.e. ones which are well-founded and data driven. You will gradually advance to become a data expert after taking a number of courses in data management and analysis, using statistical and programming tools such as R and SAS. You won’t be a fully-fledged data scientist or programmer, but by the end of the programme you'll be capable of working effectively alongside IT engineers and data scientists.

3

The practical training

Semesters 1-4

A practical focus is more than just a buzzword at IMC Krems; our lecturers share their real-life professional experience. Many of the programme’s lecturers are regarded as experts in the digital economy and can draw on international experience. Problems are discussed and dealt with on the basis of case studies. And the Innovation Lab, a joint project with companies in semester 3, gives students practical insights into the topics they have covered. You can select your project based on your interests and industry preferences. You can also learn from your fellow students by working in groups, all of whom can share their valuable experience from everyday professional settings.

In semesters 3 and 4 you will also be working on your master thesis. Depending on your interests, your thesis will focus on a research-related or practical question. Ideally, your theses will examine a real-life project at your company. You can enhance your expertise on a topic of your choice and pick up valuable input from our experts.

Curriculum

What can you expect from your studies? The curriculum provides an overview.
Click on the individual courses for further information.

Semester 1

Course	SWS	ECTS
Digital Business Processes and Strategies
Digital Business Essentials
Strategy and Organisational Design	2	3
Strategy and Organisational Design Module: Digital Business Essentials Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 1 Course code: SOD1VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Principles of corporate strategy Market and competitor analysis methods Formulating and evaluating strategic options Strategic marketing Principles of finance Elements of organisation, organisational structures and organisational development Organisational structures and work processes Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: explain the principles of strategy development identify basic terms and concepts for key strategic groups (internal/external, public/private, economic/social) carry out strategy development methodically distinguish between organisational structures, processes and tasks based on the principles of organisation theory identify competitive factors that influence a particular industry as well as profitability apply basic principles of financial management
Digital Trends	2	4
Digital Trends Module: Digital Business Essentials Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 1 Course code: DT1VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Systematic overview of new technologies (e.g. the internet of things and computer-to-computer communication), data security and privacy Digitalisation and value chain design Overview of conventional and new models of innovation in light of new technologies (e.g. open innovation, crowd creation and disruptive innovation) Digitalisation of aspects of work and everyday life by means of automation, smart services and assistance systems Opportunities and risks for society arising from digitalisation, the contribution of digitalisation to sustainable development, and changes in the world of work Economic impact of the digitalisation of business and society Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: analyse and evaluate the significance of digital technologies for companies’ processes, products and business models understand significant current and future technologies and evaluate them in terms of their functionality develop new digital business and innovation models in the course of this, recognise and critically evaluate new opportunities and risks for companies (data security, transparency, data protection, etc.) describe, classify and evaluate the influence of digital technologies on society and the world of work
Business Models and Analysis
Global Business Models	2	4
Global Business Models Module: Business Models and Analysis Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 1 Course code: GBM1VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Role models in the digital economy: prosumers Types of disruptive development (the sharing economy, crowdsourcing, digital risk management and security, cloud computing, 3D printers) Innovative technologies (service industries: software as a service, platform as a service, infrastructure as a service, business process as a service; end-to-end-services; global sourcing) Hybrid business models Transformation of markets as a result of globalisation and digitalisation Market and environmental analysis techniques Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: distinguish between types of business model by sector and industry identify key factors influencing business models, and explain how business models change as a result of market transformation develop strategies for adapting to disruptive developments explain the influence of new technologies (e.g. cloud computing, 3D printing, global sourcing, etc.) on company processes and analyse their effects
Digital Business Analysis	2	4
Digital Business Analysis Module: Business Models and Analysis Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 1 Course code: DBA1ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Evaluating companies and processes: Digital maturity assessment: digital intensity and transformation management intensity Assessing internal digitalisation capabilities and areas with development potential Identifying and planning digital development paths Evaluating potential optimisations: direct and indirect cost advantages Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: analyse the ways in which globalisation and digitalisation influence business processes, and identify new developments assess a company’s internal digitalisation capabilities and identify direct or indirect cost advantages that can be derived from them devise the implementation of core business processes using digital technologies, and plan the introduction and implementation of these processes in the company identify where processes implemented as part of digital business fit into the big picture evaluate the digital maturity and intensity of businesses and organisations, and determine the need for transformation
Digital Trends and Digital Innovation
Innovation Theories	2	3
Innovation Theories Module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Root module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Semester: 1 Course code: IT1VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Dynamics of the economy (Schumpeter, Kirzner, Knight) The individual and innovation, and sources of innovation (manufacturer, user-driven innovation, crowd innovation, open innovation) Innovation strategies (opportunity recognition, systematic search; resource-oriented, market-oriented, network-oriented strategies) Innovation culture Innovation networks (e.g. online networks, crowdsourcing, startup-corporate partnerships) Business model innovation Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: describe the central elements of an innovation process categorise different types of innovation, and evaluate the demands they place on the innovation process analyse a variety of approaches to developing innovation strategies identify the features of innovation cultures and discuss methods of implementing them illustrate the conditions that cause innovations to come about and methodically work through resistance to innovation
Digital Process Management & Innovation	2	4
Digital Process Management & Innovation Module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Root module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Semester: 1 Course code: DPMI1ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Data as a raw material, tool and commodity Linking data management and data analysis techniques with methods of innovation management Tools for digitalisation Convergence due to combination of technologies Methods of innovation management, e.g. rapid prototyping Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: use data management as an information source for innovation and process management apply modern methods of innovation management in digitalisation use suitable technologies in combination to take advantage of innovations
Data Management and Data Analysis
Data Management and Data Analysis I	2	4
Data Management and Data Analysis I Module: Data Management and Data Analysis Root module: Data Management and Data Analysis Semester: 1 Course code: DMAI1ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Data Acquisition & Preparation, Databases, Data Management Course Content: The importance of data to digitalisation of business models and programmable processes Management: technical principles of data generation and data management Platforms/frameworks: technical infrastructure and software-based principles of data analysis processes (e.g. cloud solutions, Hadoop) Methods and standards of data generation and data integration in selected fields of application: digital marketing, industry 4.0, digital services Overview of data analysis processes and their forms of use Data, Information, Insight & Knowledge The CRISP-DM & KDD Process Data Structures, Databases & DBMS (SQL, NoSQL) ETL, Schema on write/on read Entity Relationship (ER) & Data Modelling: transactional data models, flat data models, star Schema, snowflake Schema Data Sources in the Enterprise (inventory, consolidation) Data Lake, Data Warehouse Data Govermamce & Data Protection Data Generation & Collection (IoT, Industry 4.0, Digital Marketing) Data Preparation (cleansing, normalization, formatting) using R Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: perform a textbook analysis of current data use in an organisation and critically evaluate it make the case for fundamental technical approaches to IT data generation, data analysis and data integration describe suitable spheres of application of digitalisation (digital marketing, industry 4.0, digital services, internet of things)
Research and Master Thesis
Research Methods	2	4
Research Methods Module: Research and Master Thesis Root module: Research and Master Thesis Semester: 1 Course code: RM1WK Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Introduction to Data Science & Statistics Course Content: Positioning of Data Science within the different disciplines Data Science Principles, Thinking & Process Simpson's Paradox Typical Data Science & Analytics Applications Probability, Sampling, Estimation, Inferences Correlation & Regression Introduction to R Multivariate statistics techniques Predictive analysis Data mining, time series and simulations Operations research (linear, non-linear and dynamic models) Academic techniques (RQ, hypothesis testing and research design for research questions) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: process and present data material carry out methods of empirical data analysis (e.g. variance analysis, factor analysis, segmentation methods) apply empirical results as a basis for making decisions in operational research acquire fundamental skills in descriptive and inferential statistics

Semester 2

Course	SWS	ECTS
Digital Business Processes and Strategies
Digitalisation of Value Chains	2	4
Digitalisation of Value Chains Module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 2 Course code: DVC2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: The transformation of value creation: theories, concepts and processes Digitalisation of conventional value chains: primary and secondary value creation, industrial and company value chains (e.g. e-products and e-services, e-procurement, e-marketing, e-contracting, e-payment, e-distribution, electronic customer relationship management [eCRM]) New forms of value creation and value chain in the digital age (e.g. the on-demand economy and the sharing economy) Stages of development in the digitalisation of value-creation processes Business intelligence-based approaches for the analysis and management control of digital value chains (development, collection, storage, evaluation and presentation of data for key performance indicators [KPIs]) Changes in value creation as a result of globalisation Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: identify changes in value chains resulting from digitalisation processes, and analyse their strengths and weaknesses identify unused potential that could be leveraged using alternative digital processes and structures identify individuals and/or parts of a company involved in value-creation processes identify and analyse decision-making problems associated with aspects of new types of value chain plan the implementation of a KPI evaluation system analyse and evaluate digital business processes along the value chain
Leading Digital Transformation and Innovation
Transformation Management
Change and Transformation Management	2	4
Change and Transformation Management Module: Transformation Management Root module: Leading Digital Transformation and Innovation Semester: 2 Course code: CTM2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Differences and similarities between various models of change and transformation (Lewin, Kotter, Scharmer’s Theory U) Applicability of change and transformation models to digital transformation The vibrancy of organisations as a requirement for successfully managing change Structures for the organisational design of digital transformation: process, project, programme Tasks, specific roles (change agents) and processes in shaping digital transformation Impact of digital transformation on business structures, culture and strategy (“what do we keep, what do we get rid of?”, awareness and acceptance, resistance and obstacles, communication) and the demands placed on leadership style Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: describe the core aspects of a transformation process and analyse various change management approaches critically analyse alternative organisational structures for transformation management, and develop proposals for each identify core change management tools and the necessity of change processes in organisations expertly manage restructuring measures, assess progress and propose corrective action plan change processes and digital transformation using targeted culture-related measures
Project Management	2	4
Project Management Module: Transformation Management Root module: Leading Digital Transformation and Innovation Semester: 2 Course code: PM2WK Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: “Conventional” project management methods and processes, and the distinction between project management and innovation management Agile project management approaches, agile manifestos and their potential, and limits of integration Features of digital B2B and B2C transformation projects and programmes Project management for the organisational design of transformation projects and programmes (importance of stakeholder management and project marketing; challenges facing project management) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: plan projects define, distinguish between and apply traditional and agile project management, and describe the attributes of each analyse the procedures involved in corporate transformation processes select and apply modern management techniques suited to a particular situation to support strategy development, strategy communication and successful performance improvement identify and apply analytical and decision-making tools used in project development
Digital Trends and Digital Innovation
Digital Transformation and Process Management	2	4
Digital Transformation and Process Management Module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Root module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Semester: 2 Course code: DTPM2ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Processes and process management Digital processes Incorporating digital business models into strategy Process transformation Continuous improvement of process-oriented business models Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: analyse existing processes, derive the core processes and assess them with regard to digitalisation measures evaluate alternative ways of conducting processes, in particular by incorporating the results of data analysis plan standardised process steps identify responsibilities, milestones and standard documents in digital process management understand data-driven, innovative process design
Data Management and Data Analysis
Data Management and Data Analysis II	2	4
Data Management and Data Analysis II Module: Data Management and Data Analysis Root module: Data Management and Data Analysis Semester: 2 Course code: DMAII2ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Big Data & Predictive Analytics Course Content: Data modelling and data models: transactional data models, flat data models, star schema, snowflake schema Procedures for structuring and integration of large/heterogeneous volumes of data Forecasts and real-time simulation Combining big data and business intelligence applications Big Data (Cloud, Hadoop, MapReduce, Spark) Procedures for structuring and Integration of large/heterogeneous volumes of data Forecasts and real-time Simulation & Predictive Analytics using R Combining big data and Business intelligence applications Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: assess the advantages, disadvantages and areas of application of big data technology, architectures and analysis tools, and apply them to solve problems process data streams and carry out complex data analyses make the case for IT structures for data modelling and data generation combine intelligent applications and interpret the volumes of data they generate
Research and Master Thesis
Master Thesis Coaching Seminar	1	2
Master Thesis Coaching Seminar Module: Research and Master Thesis Root module: Research and Master Thesis Semester: 2 Course code: MTCS2WK Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Finding a topic Planning and development of the master thesis Selection of primary and secondary information sources and data Presentation and discussion of the topic Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: select and evaluate appropriate literature formulate a research question evaluate theories to apply in addressing a specific topic scientifically select a hypothesis and determine the academic methods to be used
Transformation Methods
Innovation Methods and Controlling
Human Centred Innovation	2	4
Human Centred Innovation Module: Innovation Methods and Controlling Root module: Transformation Methods Semester: 2 Course code: HCI2WK Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Methodology (the design thinking process in theory and practice) Process (user/human centred innovation process) Techniques (observing situations in daily life, detecting complex and unintuitive behaviour, prototyping, integrating feedback from users) Tools (customer journey, personas, empathy maps, mock-ups) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: think in a design-oriented way to independently devise innovation projects use design thinking to develop a systematic approach to complex problems in respect of user requirements and needs understand suitable approaches from methodology apply the six-phase process to human centred innovation projects identify and evaluate methods and tools of the human centred innovation process
Innovation Controlling	2	4
Innovation Controlling Module: Innovation Methods and Controlling Root module: Transformation Methods Semester: 2 Course code: IC2ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Information resources for evaluating innovation Evaluation models for cost-benefit/investment analysis and decisions (e.g. return on investment calculations, NPV, BCR, sensitivity analyses) Designing innovation controlling systems Budgeting and the budget process Budget implementation and controlling (standard model, activity accounting, target costing) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: apply key indicators and quality control instruments within innovation controlling, as well as methods for capacity planning and cost control assess the efficiency and effectiveness of innovation activities identify risks in innovation projects apply and evaluate methods for targeted planning and management of innovation processes in a business

Semester 3

Course	SWS	ECTS
Digital Business Processes and Strategies
Human Development and Communication	2	3
Human Development and Communication Module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 3 Course code: HDC3VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Conventional HR management methods and strategies Recruitment and training for the digital age Needs analysis and profiling (e.g. digital employees) Forms of work and working time models (team organisation, designing physical and virtual workspaces) New forms of work in the digital age Employer branding (companies’ digital identities, and defining and addressing new target groups) Integrating new forms of internal communication Introducing digital systems for modern work processes and organisation (e.g. Slack, Doodle and WhatsApp) Employee management, participation and feedback systems (e.g. gamification) Transformation roadmap and digital agenda for HRM (integrating digital assistance and artificial intelligence; supporting human-computer interaction Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: prepare target-driven organisational and employee development concepts plan and implement exemplary recruitment measures incorporating the latest technology identify success factors for communication in the digital age discuss modern forms of work and working time models, and evaluate them in terms of their applicability understand the importance of and draw up sets of measures to implement employee-oriented employer branding prepare a transformation roadmap and a digital agenda based on a company’s human resources
Leading Digital Transformation and Innovation
Innovation Lab	4	6
Innovation Lab Module: Leading Digital Transformation and Innovation Root module: Leading Digital Transformation and Innovation Semester: 3 Course code: IL3WK Contact hours per week: 4 ECTS: 6 Course Content: Students work in teams on real projects for companies/public institutions/research projects Topic areas (examples): Lead user projects Design thinking projects Startup-corporate interaction programmes Research projects Company innovation projects (establishing in-house innovation routines, ideation processes, implementation projects) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: practically apply what they have learned to a project use the core competencies of digital transformation and innovation within the innovation lab plan, carry out and reflectively evaluate a relevant transformation project in collaboration with their own company or a partner organisation try out the latest innovative forms of customer and user inclusion, using the design thinking method
Data Management and Data Analysis
Data Management and Data Analysis III	2	3
Data Management and Data Analysis III Module: Data Management and Data Analysis Root module: Data Management and Data Analysis Semester: 3 Course code: DMAIII3ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Applying Data Analysis & Interpretation using Machine Learning Course Content: Applying data modelling processes Applying analysis processes to business data Interpretation of results and drawing conclusions Machine Learning: Classification, Clustering, Regression using R Vertical hands-on application examples in Industry, Marketing, Healthcare, Finance Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: apply data management and data analysis on a case-by-case basis interpret and evaluate resulting data correctly draw appropriate conclusions and develop strategic planning steps
Human-Computer-Interaction	2	3
Human-Computer-Interaction Module: Data Management and Data Analysis Root module: Data Management and Data Analysis Semester: 3 Course code: HCI3WK Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: How humans process information Human-computer and human-digital environment interactions Methods for designing user interfaces Standards for designing user interfaces User interfaces (e.g. haptic interaction, gestures, audio dialogue, text dialogue, graphical interfaces) Evaluating human-computer interaction systems Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: assess current developments in the field of human-computer interaction analyse relevant aspects of human perception, information processing and action regulation in relation to the use of computers discuss natural speech dialogue systems, multimodal interfaces and interface tasks evaluate the user-friendliness of the design of interactive systems and their user interfaces assess design methods (design, implementation and evaluation) for user-friendly human-computer interfaces
Research and Master Thesis
Master Thesis (I)	0	12
Master Thesis (I) Module: Research and Master Thesis Root module: Research and Master Thesis Semester: 3 Course code: MAI3DA Contact hours per week: 0 ECTS: 12 Course Content: Creation of master thesis
Transformation Methods
Corporate Foresight	2	3
Corporate Foresight Module: Transformation Methods Root module: Transformation Methods Semester: 3 Course code: CF3VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Identifying corporate and market environments Planning foresight processes: combining aims, time, stakeholders and methods Foresight and trend research methods (scenario techniques, forecasting techniques, Delphi method, roadmapping, cross-impact analysis) Internal forecasting methods (product life cycle, product and process innovations, etc.) Preparing scenarios and strategies, recognising trends Methods for deriving and evaluating strategies and measures to be taken (retropolation) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: critically appraise planning and forecasting methods classify forecasts based on data modelling with regard to the past, the present and the future identify future opportunities and risks discuss the role of corporate foresight processes in organisational structures make the case for the use of foresight models and trend research methods

Semester 4

Course	SWS	ECTS
Digital Business Processes and Strategies
Risks and Laws
Corporate Risk Management	2	3
Corporate Risk Management Module: Risks and Laws Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 4 Course code: CRM4ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: International risk management standards Types of risk Risk management methods, processes and roles Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: implement proactive, company-wide risk management systems understand practical tools for identifying and assessing risk (interest rate, exchange, price, project and strategic risks) identify and analyse the role of risk management in value-based management, planning and reporting understand optimisation processes and timely consideration of a risk/opportunity profile
Legal Awareness	1	2
Legal Awareness Module: Risks and Laws Root module: Digital Business Processes and Strategies Semester: 4 Course code: LA4VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Legal aspects of digitalisation: copyright, intellectual property, labour law, data protection Political and ethical dimensions of the digitalisation of environments Labour law topics, patent protection and protection of ideas Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: interpret the legal framework in areas of decision-making that are important for digital business independently draw up and present solutions to simple legal questions and problems (including labour law) evaluate alternative technical and organisational solutions in terms of their legal implications make practical use of intellectual property rights in order to protect innovations, intellectual achievements, patents, copyright, etc. accurately assess the scope and effect of intellectual property rights evaluate the importance of intellectual property as an asset in a business context
Digital Trends and Digital Innovation
Culture, Leadership and Attitude
Digital Leadership	2	3
Digital Leadership Module: Culture, Leadership and Attitude Root module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Semester: 4 Course code: DL4ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Strategies for coping with the new circumstances facing leaders: environmental changes (VUCA model), changing values Transformation skills as a specific requirement of leaders in the process of digital transformation Leadership behaviour as determined by new organisational forms (networks, hybrid organisations, etc.) Leading dispersed teams Leadership and data governance: rights and duties in data management and data use processes Strategies for ensuring human resources can live up to future demands: frameworks for designing future (digital) workplaces Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: identify success factors for leadership in the digital age analyse and evaluate core HR, leadership and organisation models and concepts, as well as their applicability to new forms of organisation capitalise on available digital leadership potential and resources develop and apply new leadership tools for managing teams and networks effectively (Innovation Lab) draw up strategies for sustainable digital leadership
Ethics	1	2
Ethics Module: Culture, Leadership and Attitude Root module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Semester: 4 Course code: ETH4VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Changes in responsibilities due to digitalisation along the value chain Ethical requirements for all participants Principles of business ethics Communication ethics in theory and practice Mechanisms for critical reflection Analysing practical examples and simulating solutions Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: give reasons and arguments in support of values and norms identify and critically evaluate ethical problems linked to digitalisation identify the responsibilities of managers in a corporate, social and macroeconomic context analyse communication situations from ethical standpoints on the basis of different theories of communication deal professionally with complex ethical questions in connection with specific practical examples of digitalisation
Digital Trends and Innovation	2	2
Digital Trends and Innovation Module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Root module: Digital Trends and Digital Innovation Semester: 4 Course code: DTI4WK Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Review of all courses, focusing on knowledge acquired and the application of individual topics in research and practice Advanced methods for monitoring trends: environment analysis and early recognition Scenario monitoring and scenario management Evaluation and selection of innovation concepts for digitalisation strategies Integration of stakeholders in knowledge and innovation processes Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: demonstrate a thorough understanding of digitalisation and transformation in companies and organisations identify areas of application in practice and research analyse existing planning and forecasting methods critically in light of disruptive developments in a fast-paced world, and discuss new methods critically analyse existing and newly developed innovation concepts for digitalisation strategies analyse whether suitable data interpretation is required, on the basis of data models and data generation
Data Management and Data Analysis
Data Management and Data Analysis IV	2	3
Data Management and Data Analysis IV Module: Data Management and Data Analysis Root module: Data Management and Data Analysis Semester: 4 Course code: DMAIV4ILV Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Integration into Operations Course Content: Integration I: visualisation, reporting, knowledge management Integration II: preparation of results for further development of digitalisation strategies Integration III: utilisation and evaluation of results for error reduction, cost optimisation and process optimisation Run-time Integration and APIs Course outcome: Upon completion of this course, students are able to: evaluate data streams and prepare data appropriately for users apply their data management and data analysis skills in new and unfamiliar situations, and where required develop new approaches to solutions/new digitalisation strategies take the necessary steps for integration of data use within the organisational context develop cost and process optimisations based on data analysis
Research and Master Thesis
Master Thesis (II)	0	10
Master Thesis (II) Module: Research and Master Thesis Root module: Research and Master Thesis Semester: 4 Course code: MAII4DA Contact hours per week: 0 ECTS: 10 Course Content: Creation of master thesis
Master Exam	0	5
Master Exam Module: Research and Master Thesis Root module: Research and Master Thesis Semester: 4 Course code: ME4AP Contact hours per week: 0 ECTS: 5 Course Content: In the master examination, students demonstrate their ability to: present their master thesis appropriately to the target audience, and defend the question they addressed, the research design they used and the results reached before an expert committee work through a case study related to their degree programme, applying the content of the programme, and develop and justify possible solutions

Core topics

Re-imagine the business world! During your studies you'll ask yourself how you can advance digitalisation and innovation in your company based on basic economic principles.

Digital transformation

Where are we headed in this digitalised world? Get a holistic perspective of new technologies and work out how you can use digitalisation to add value to your business.

Opportunities of digitalisation

Developments such as automation, the sharing economy, prosumerisation – the growing professional demands of users on products and services – as well as smart services are only a few of the trends you'll deal with in depth. You'll also learn how to integrate digital processes into your corporate strategy and how your company can benefit from continuous improvement processes, right through to the development of innovative business processes.

On the other hand, you will also deal with the effects of digitalisation on society and the economy and learn to assess the associated opportunities and risks.

In this regard, you'll discuss how you can ensure that today's workforce meets tomorrow's needs. This means taking a close look at the conditions for digital work. For example, you'll deal with communication and collaboration among remote teams.

The power of data

During your studies you will come to realise the importance of data for the digitalisation of business models. You'll look at data generation, data management, data analysis and data visualisation. But data protection and governance play equally crucial roles, as do the appropriate tools and processes for optimal data management.

Let the data speak to you! You will naturally also learn how you can benefit from data – especially for Industry 4.0, the Internet of things (IoT) and digital services. Big data analysis and data mining are two terms that come up a lot.

Innovation 4.0

It will soon become obvious to you that digitalisation and innovation go hand in hand. That's why you'll also deal with the key well-established and new innovation models. You'll learn digital approaches that you can use to increase innovation in your company.

Digitalisation calls for change

You'll deal with organisational forms that promote innovation, and learn to transcend restrictive structures in traditional organisations. During your studies you'll acquire tools that will help you to successfully manage digital change processes. Because professional project and change management are indispensable when implementing a digitalisation process.

You'll also learn how to make the most of internal and external trends and developments. Based on your analyses, you'll design scenarios to ensure that your company is well-positioned to face the future.

Embedding innovation in your corporate culture

You'll also study human-centred innovation – especially design thinking – and learn about the underlying process in depth. Learn to walk the walk - that's the idea! It's a matter of identifying non-intuitive behaviour and reacting to it as quickly as possible with a prototype or a minimum viable product. Then you ask your users for feedback – and incorporate it immediately. This succinct process is then repeated several times.

In the Innovation Lab, you and your classmates will apply this approach to creatively, efficiently and effectively solve problems for real-world projects.

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After completing the Digital Business Innovation and Transformation master degree programme, you will have a solid understanding of the unique challenges and key success factors of digital business models.

You'll therefore be able to plan, direct, and drive production, service, or sales digital transformation processes.

After graduation, you'll enjoy new career opportunities because you'll be optimally positioned for an international career. You can use your newly acquired expertise to benefit your current company, or you can switch to another post in Austria or abroad.

The professional areas open to graduates include
change management with a focus on digital technologies
design and implementation of digital business models
digital supply chain management and logistics
big data analysis using digital technologies (e.g. optimisation of production lines by digital simulation of the production process)
project management
innovation management
business-oriented IT management
strategic management with a focus on digital business management
digital transformation consultancy
chief digital officer (CDO) responsibilities

10 good reasons

What makes us special? We are more than happy to tell you about the aspects of our university, which we are especially proud of.

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Krems

Friendly and cosmopolitan: The city attracts students from all over the world, who come to study, research and work together.

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Service centers

Our university has removed a host of administrative hurdles, leaving you free to concentrate fully on your studies.

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Advisory Service

Do you have questions regarding our degree programmes or the application? Contact our Prospective Student Advisory Service.

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Opinions: Digital Business Innovation and Transformation

Click through the videos of the degree programme.

Prospect Andreas Diensthuber

Virtual Info Day

Our info events

Thursday
30.01.2020
16:00
Master Lounge
Your very personal infotainment afternoon. Get all information about the IMC Master programmes from programme directors and learn more about major...
#Master Lounge
IMC Campus Krems | Wing G1IMC Campus Krems | Wing G1
Saturday
22.02.2020
09:00
Open House
All information about studying at the IMC FH Krems.
#Open House
IMC Campus Krems | Wing G1IMC Campus Krems | Wing G1

Show all events

Our team

Get to know the core team of our master degree programme Digital Business Innovation and Transformation.

Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Roger Hage
Programme Director Digital Business Innovation and Transformation
Institute International Business
+43 2732 802 307
roger.hage@fh-krems.ac.at
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt G1
Activ in the degree programmes
Digital Business Innovation and Transformation
Master of Arts in Business / part-time
International Business and Export Management
Master of Arts in Business / full-time
International Business and Export Management
Master of Arts in Business / part-time
Export-oriented Management
Bachelor of Arts in Business / full-time
Financial Management (MSc.)
Master of Science / part-time
Projects
eMobSim - Elektromobilität im Alltag
Department of Business
Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Roger Hage
Programme Director Digital Business Innovation and Transformation
Programme Director Digital Business Innovation and Transformation
Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Roger Hage

Full-time Lecturers

Prof.(FH) Mag.(FH) Dr. Manfred Pferzinger
Deputy Chair of the Academic Board / Programme Director Business Administration for the Public Health Sector and Management of Health Institutions
Institute Business Administration & Management
+43 2732 802 705
manfred.pferzinger@fh-krems.ac.at
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt G
Core Competencies
eHealth
Innovation
Process management
Activ in the degree programmes
Digital Business Innovation and Transformation
Master of Arts in Business / part-time
Betriebswirtschaft für das Gesundheitswesen
Bachelor of Arts in Business / full-time
Betriebswirtschaft für das Gesundheitswesen
Bachelor of Arts in Business / part-time
Management von Gesundheitsunternehmen
Master of Arts in Business / part-time
Angewandte Gesundheitswissenschaften
Master of Science in Health Studies / part-time
Prof.(FH) Mag.(FH) Dr. Manfred Pferzinger
Deputy Chair of the Academic Board / Programme Director Business...
Prof.(FH) Dipl.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirtsch.-Ing. Michael Bartz
Professor Department of Business
Institute International Business
+43 2732 802 392
michael.bartz@fh-krems.ac.at
IMC International Campus Piaristengasse
Core Competencies
Digital Business Transformation
New World of Work
Digital business models
Activ in the degree programmes
Digital Business Innovation and Transformation
Master of Arts in Business / part-time
International Business and Export Management
Master of Arts in Business / full-time
International Business and Export Management
Master of Arts in Business / part-time
Projects
New World of Work: Erfolgsmessung Porsche Informatik GmbH
Department of Business
Prof.(FH) Dipl.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirtsch.-Ing. Michael Bartz
Professor Department of Business
Prof.(FH) Mag. Gerhard Kormann-Hainzl
Professor Department of Business
Institute International Business
+43 2732 802 381
gerhard.kormann@fh-krems.ac.at
IMC International Campus Piaristengasse
Core Competencies
Digital Business Transformation such as digital business model innovation, digitalization processes innovation, digital leadership
Risk management, international trade and finance and alternative financial instruments such as crowd funding
Strategic Management and Internationalisation
Activ in the degree programmes
Digital Business Innovation and Transformation
Master of Arts in Business / part-time
Export-oriented Management
Bachelor of Arts in Business / full-time
Projects
Digitales Kompetenzmonitoring in Produktionsunternehmen
Department of Business
Enterprise 4.0 – Erfolg im digitalen Zeitalter
Department of Business
Digital Business Transformation
Department of Business
Mixed Reality Based Collaboration for Industry (MRBC4i)
Department of Business
Prof.(FH) Mag. Gerhard Kormann-Hainzl
Professor Department of Business

Application and admissions – the next steps

You've found a course that's a perfect fit? Great – you’ve already taken the most important step! We’ve put together an overview to guide you through the next steps.

1

Admission requirements

We'll be happy to inform you about the requirements you have to meet in order to apply.

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2

Admissions procedure

Preparation is everything – read up on the admissions procedure in detail.

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3

Important dates and deadlines

What deadlines do you need to keep an eye on for your online application? Get an overview.

Details

Application deadline	31/05/2019
Application deadline for non-EU nationals	31/03/2019
Extended application deadline Does not apply for applications from non-EU nationals.	15/06/2019 - 15/07/2019

4

Apply online

You've decided for one of our degree programmes? First of all: congratulations and thank you for choosing us! We’ll be happy to guide you step-by-step through your online application.

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5

Study-relevant dates

You would like to plan ahead and would like to know when your degree programme starts? Here you will find the answer!

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Questions about the degree programme?

Prospective Student Advisory Service

Do you have questions regarding the entry requirements, the admission procedure and more? Our Prospective Student Advisory Service is happy to help.

+432732802222

information@fh-krems.ac.at

Ask a Student

Join our Facebook group: Direct your questions to our students and get first-hand accounts about studying at IMC Krems.

Facebook group

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Digital Business Innovation and Transformation master degree programme

Become a change agent! After your master degree, you'll lead your company into the future. You'll be able to coordinate and direct digital transformations, no matter what the industry. Because the future is digital.

Part-time

English

4 semesters

EUR 363.36

The degree programme: Master of Arts in Business (MA)

Programme director Roger Hage

A formula for success: theoretical knowledge + practical experience

The business basics

The core topics

The practical training

Curriculum

Semester 1

Strategy and Organisational Design

Digital Trends

Global Business Models

Digital Business Analysis

Innovation Theories

Digital Process Management & Innovation

Data Management and Data Analysis I

Research Methods

Semester 2

Digitalisation of Value Chains

Change and Transformation Management

Project Management

Digital Transformation and Process Management

Data Management and Data Analysis II

Master Thesis Coaching Seminar

Human Centred Innovation

Innovation Controlling

Semester 3

Human Development and Communication

Innovation Lab

Data Management and Data Analysis III

Human-Computer-Interaction

Master Thesis (I)

Corporate Foresight

Semester 4

Corporate Risk Management

Legal Awareness

Digital Leadership

Ethics

Digital Trends and Innovation

Data Management and Data Analysis IV

Master Thesis (II)

Master Exam

Core topics

Digital transformation

Opportunities of digitalisation

The power of data

Innovation 4.0

Digitalisation calls for change

Embedding innovation in your corporate culture

Newsletter & additional information

Newsletter & brochures

Career options

10 good reasons

Krems

Service centers

Advisory Service

Opinions: Digital Business Innovation and Transformation

Prospect Andreas Diensthuber

Virtual Info Day

Our info events

Master Lounge

Open House

Our team

Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Roger Hage

Activ in the degree programmes

Projects

Programme Director Digital Business Innovation and Transformation

Full-time Lecturers

Prof.(FH) Mag.(FH) Dr. Manfred Pferzinger

Core Competencies

Activ in the degree programmes

Prof.(FH) Dipl.-Ing. Dipl.-Wirtsch.-Ing. Michael Bartz

Core Competencies

Activ in the degree programmes

Projects