Business management micro-credentials and incremental funding: a social impact case study

Purpose The purpose of this study is to demonstrate how access to quality, practical and affordable business management education can achieve positive social impact through short-term incremental funding that spans election cycles and is aligned to industry demands and policy priorities. Design/methodology/approach A case study of the design, delivery and evaluation of a series of micro-credential business management short courses for organisations operating in Queensland, Australia, was undertaken. Findings The development of a conceptual framework incorporating managerial capabilities, stakeholder engagement and value creation to guide the development of co-designed, co-delivered and co-evaluated quality education in management, that is accessible, affordable and achievable due to incremental funding and support from all levels of government. Research limitations/implications The aim of a case study investigation is to develop theory based on multiple sources of evidence including observations, document analysis and interviews. The conceptual framework derived from this study is limited to the individual level of social impact and serves as a guideline for future research projects aiming to measure positive social impact by other methods such as surveys and statistical analysis. Practical implications The strength of the conceptual framework developed during this study is in its transferability to contexts other than management education and micro-credential courses. Social implications Findings are applicable for governing jurisdictions outside of Queensland including local government areas, as well as other states and territories where short-term funding and election cycles are experienced. Originality/value The case study presents a unique model of management education that has the potential to achieve significant positive social impact. Additionally, this unique model responds to national and state government policies relating to micro-credential courses.