Delivered at:: Department of Business Informatics and Operations Management

Course type:: Compulsory course

When:: 4 year, 1 module

Instructor

Daviy, Anna

Full Syllabus Ask Question

Abstract

In today’s data-driven and platform-based economy, digital business models are transforming how firms operate, create value, and compete globally. This course explores the structure, logic, and innovation potential of digital business models through international benchmarks, real-world cases, and research-based insights. Using frameworks such as the Business Model Canvas, Platform Thinking, and Ecosystem Design, students will critically evaluate existing models and develop their own. The course is highly interactive and practice-oriented, combining theory with applied analysis and collaborative problem-solving.

Learning Objectives

The goal of this course is to equip students with the knowledge and tools to analyze, design, and critically evaluate digital business models that leverage data, platforms, and ecosystems in a global business context.

Expected Learning Outcomes

Define and differentiate digital business models from traditional ones using real-world examples.
Apply analytical frameworks to evaluate digital business models across industries.
Analyze the role of platforms, data, and ecosystems in shaping digital business strategies.
Evaluate ethical, legal, and strategic implications of digitalization across contexts.
Design a digital business model that transforms a traditional company using research-backed tools.
Collaborate effectively in open-ended group projects to solve complex digital business challenges.

Course Contents

1. Foundations of Digital Business Models
2. Frameworks and Archetypes
3. Platforms, Ecosystems, and Strategic Dynamics
4. Innovation, Experimentation, and Design

Assessment Elements

Individual Assignment
Analysis of an existing digital business model using selected framework.
Final Exam
Written test with short case-based questions and multiple choice.
Group Project
Digital transformation of a traditional business model (presentation + concept document)
In-Class Activities
Participation in discussions, exercises, and peer reviews during seminars. In-class assignments are an important part of the formative assessment. They help students trace their learning progress and allow the instructor to identify and remediate the knowledge gaps. As a rule, in-class assignments are designed either to enhance students’ understanding of specific terms and concepts or develop their practical skills. 1) Students are eligible to get credit for an in-class activity only if they are present in class when the assignment is due. Assignments sent via email or submitted in person before or after class will not be accepted (unless specified by the instructors). 2) Late work is not accepted. 3) No extra credit assignments are provided for missed classes.

Interim Assessment

2026/2027 2nd module
0.25 * Final Exam + 0.3 * In-Class Activities + 0.25 * Individual Assignment + 0.2 * Group Project

Bibliography

Recommended Core Bibliography

Bernd W. Wirtz. (2019). Digital Business Models : Concepts, Models, and the Alphabet Case Study (Vol. 1st ed. 2019). Springer.
Branislav Mičieta, Vladimíra Biňasová, Marta Kasajová, & Honorata Howaniec. (2020). Business Model Canvas as a Tool of Manager 4.0. Zeszyty Naukowe Wyższej Szkoły Humanitas. Zarządzanie, 28(1), 51–64. https://doi.org/10.5604/01.3001.0014.1235

Recommended Additional Bibliography

Wirtz, B. W. (2019). Digital business models. Springer International Publishing.
Zott Christoph, & Amit Raphael. (2017). Business Model Innovation: How to Create Value in a Digital World. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&site=eds-live&db=edsbas&AN=edsbas.66E8A105

Authors

DAVIY ANNA OLEGOVNA

Bachelor’s Programme 'International Programme in Business and Economics'

Contacts:

Digital Business Models