C218 – MBA IT Management Capstone

Course Structure

• Tasks: 3 written tasks (PowerPoint, report, and a reflective paper) based on a large business simulation.

• Simulation: Marketplace simulation encompassing Q1–Q6.

• Estimated Time to Complete: 2–4 weeks depending on experience and time commitment. Some students finish in a week with a focused effort.

Key Steps to Complete the Course

Task 1: Simulation and Presentation

• Objective: Complete simulation through Q4 and prepare a PowerPoint with a video presentation.

• Steps:

• Simulation:

• Focus on opening new locations each quarter (up to Q4).

• Build products for all categories immediately and equip them with appropriate parts.

• Invest in R&D and advertising heavily in early quarters.

• Compensate employees above the average to boost morale and productivity.

• PowerPoint Presentation:

• Use the provided template.

• Justify your decisions using data from the simulation.

• Record a video presentation (18–20 minutes recommended).

• Submission Tip: Do not submit Q4 in the simulation until Task 1 is evaluated.

• Resources:

• WGU’s Panopto video tutorial for presentations.

• Simulation tutorial videos and guides provided within the course.

• Tips:

• Take notes during the simulation, tracking your decisions and rationale.

• Be ready to explain both successes and failures; evaluators prioritize your analysis over performance.

• Schedule a meeting with your course instructor for clarification.

Task 2: Final Simulation and Written Report

• Objective: Complete simulation through Q6 and submit a detailed report.

• Steps:

• Simulation:

• Continue Q5 and Q6.

• Export Excel sheets, graphs, and screenshots from the simulation.

• Focus on long-term investments like capacity increases and system improvements.

• Report Writing:

• Follow the rubric and use the provided template.

• Include screenshots of charts and data to back your analysis.

• Be granular and detailed, especially in financial and strategic analysis.

• Tips:

• Use averages and trends from previous quarters for projections.

• Check each section against the rubric for completeness.

• Submit only when Task 1 is graded.

Task 3: Self-Reflection and Career Preparation

• Objective: Reflect on the MBA program, update professional profiles, and set SMART goals.

• Steps:

• Reflection Essay: Discuss key takeaways from the program and your career aspirations.

• Professional Profiles: Update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Attach certifications if applicable.

• Submission: Ensure all components align with the rubric.

• Tips:

• Keep LinkedIn and resume updates straightforward if already maintained.

• Review the rubric to ensure completeness.

Simulation Tips and Strategies

• Open locations every quarter to expand market reach.

• Pay for all available advertising and market research to gain competitive insights.

• Keep pricing just below the market maximum with strategic rebates early on.

• Avoid loans; reinvest profits wisely.

• Invest in fixed capacity early to meet future demand.

• Document your decisions and rationale for each quarter in a Word document.

General Guidance

• Time Management: Allocate 2–4 hours per quarter in the simulation. Writing the report for Task 2 may take longer due to detailed requirements.

• Support: Reach out to WGU mentors and course instructors for guidance. They are crucial resources if you feel stuck.

• Resource Links:

• WGU’s Capstone Resources

• Reddit Capstone Discussions

• Helpful Videos: Search YouTube for Marketplace simulation tutorials and report writing strategies.

Final Notes

• Flexibility: The course is highly self-paced, with students reporting completion times between 1–4 weeks.

• Course Evolution: Always check the latest course materials and updates.

Source for This Guide: Information compiled from 12 personal experiences shared online, including Reddit threads and WGU forums.