Microsoft is working with the Southampton Business School to introduce students to new concepts in business software and career prospects. The Microsoft Careers Event that recently took place on campus included talks from Microsoft’s partners, and gave students advice on securing graduate jobs with major technology companies.
In addition, specialists from Microsoft Dynamics contributed their knowledge to a staging of Dr Andrew Stainton’s interactive “Learning In An Interactive Simulation Environment” (LIAISE) Business Training Simulation, advising the teams of undergraduates.
Developed over 25 years in collaboration with many leading companies, the sophisticated LIAISE interactive simulation challenges small teams to manage and run their own businesses manufacturing and selling fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) within a realistic real-world environment.
Rachel Ogilvie and Joe Cobham won the event. “Taking part in the simulation is very different to listening to lectures,” explains Rachel. “You have to think fast as you take a month’s worth of decisions in 20 minutes and they could have big consequences.” Joe adds: “We learn business theories during our degree but this allows us to put them into practice.” Microsoft donated some of its latest mobile phones as prizes.
Kevin Horlock from Microsoft says “We thought the business simulation was fantastic as it teaches the students many important processes. We decided to come to Southampton because of the reputation of the Business School for high quality teaching and its links with many leading financial institutions. We also wanted to showcase Microsoft Dynamics which is already used by tens of thousands of successful companies worldwide.”
Partner companies taking part in the Microsoft / Southampton Careers Expo were Columbus UK, K3 Business Solutions, HSO and eBECS. “This innovative collaboration between Southampton Business School and the Microsoft Dynamics business community provided a glimpse for students into future opportunities as they start to consider their career choices. It combined the application of business technologies available in the market today with theories taught at the University,” says Deputy Head of Southampton Business School and acting Associate Dean for Education, Dr Martin Broad.
