45-873 Engagement & Inclusion as Strategic Competitive Advantage

6 units, Carnegie Mellon University

This course explores how firms leverage engagement and inclusion as strategic resources to achieve and sustain competitive advantage. Grounded in the Resource-Based View and Competitive Dynamics frameworks, the course examines how these behaviors influence innovation, adaptability, and firm performance—not as HR initiatives, but as intentional, firm-level strategic choices. Students will critically evaluate when and how inclusion and engagement drive differentiation—and when they may pose risk—using case studies, academic research, and real-world competitive behavior. Materials include McKinsey's How Inclusion Matters and research by Bermiss, Creary, Major and others. This course does not focus on designing HR programs or leadership training. It is intended for master's students interested in strategy, consulting, or general management. Prereq: Corporate Strategy (45-770)

Prerequisites: 45-770 (min C)

Offered: Spring 2027, Spring 2026

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