An MBA Primer for Non-MBAs

By R. Ellis, Alex Tauber
2006 | Case No. E190
This note is intended to familiarize non-MBAs with some concepts and terms that will be used in the class S356, Evaluating Entrepreneurial Opportunities. It is not intended to be exhaustive. It covers the following building blocks for creating an effective business plan: • Developing a sustainable competitive strategy; • Choosing a source of financing; • Deciding between structures of ownership; • Choosing an organizational structure; • Understanding sales, marketing, and distribution; • Developing an effective business model; • Understanding accounting. Each topic in this note is organized into two sections. The first section introduces students to a concept while the second section provides abbreviated definitions of relevant terms.
This material is designated for use in specific Stanford GSB classes only. For inquiries, contact the Case Writing Office.