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Using Student Engagement to Solve Problems and Engage New Ways of Thinking

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In today’s fast-paced business world, companies are constantly searching for innovative solutions to address their challenges and drive growth. One valuable resource they can tap into is the Multidisciplinary Action Project (MAP) program at the University of Michigan. This blog post delves into how companies can leverage the MAP program to overcome business obstacles, harness fresh talent, and boost their research and development (R&D) efforts.

Understanding the MAP Program

The MAP program, offered by the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, serves as a bridge between academia and the corporate sector. As part of their full-time MBA curriculum, students engage in real-world projects, collaborating with diverse companies to solve complex business problems. The program encompasses a wide range of degree programs, including MBA, undergraduate BBA, and Masters of Business Analytics.

Addressing Business Issues

Engaging with the MAP program offers companies a unique opportunity to tackle pressing business issues. By partnering with motivated and talented MBA students, businesses gain access to a pool of diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives. This multidisciplinary approach provides fresh insights and innovative ideas for overcoming the most challenging problems.

Through rigorous research, data analysis, and strategic thinking, MBA students deliver comprehensive recommendations guided by experienced faculty. With a proven 30-year track record of generating actionable insights, MAP projects drive tangible business outcomes.

Leveraging Fresh Talent

Engaging with the MAP program not only helps solve problems but also establishes connections with MBA students from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. These students bring diverse skills and perspectives to the table, offering companies an opportunity to tap into a pool of driven and talented individuals.

Moreover, partnering with Ann Arbor SPARK, an organization specializing in talent acquisition and business development, enhances collaboration. This synergy enables companies to access top-tier talent and cultivate a long-lasting partnership that fuels growth, innovation, and success.

Enhancing Research & Development

To maintain a competitive edge in today’s innovation-driven world, research and development (R&D) are paramount. The MAP program provides an ideal platform for companies to enhance their R&D efforts. By collaborating with MBA students who possess a strong foundation in business theory and practice, businesses can explore new avenues, evaluate market trends, and develop innovative solutions.

The MAP program’s multidisciplinary nature fosters cross-functional collaboration, allowing professionals from various departments to align R&D initiatives with business objectives. This collaboration can lead to breakthrough innovations, improved processes, and optimized product development strategies.

Ann Arbor SPARK’s Role

Ann Arbor SPARK plays a crucial role in connecting businesses with the resources and opportunities available through the MAP program at the University of Michigan. They catalyze economic development in the region and offer comprehensive support to businesses leveraging the MAP program.

SPARK helps companies identify suitable MAP projects aligned with their specific needs and goals. Their deep understanding of the local business ecosystem provides valuable guidance and facilitates connections with the right MAP project teams.

Additionally, SPARK assists businesses in navigating the logistics of engaging with the MAP program, ensuring smooth project management and execution. Their business development resources contribute to maximizing the impact of MAP projects by providing insights into market trends, industry best practices, and potential funding opportunities.

SPARK’s extensive network and connections in the Ann Arbor business community open doors to additional opportunities beyond the MAP program. By actively engaging with SPARK, businesses can tap into a broader ecosystem of support, including networking events, industry partnerships, talent acquisition services, and mentoring programs.

Unlocking Success through the MAP Program

The University of Michigan’s Multidisciplinary Action Project (MAP) presents an invaluable opportunity for companies to overcome business challenges, tap into fresh talent, and enhance their research and development efforts. By partnering with MBA students from the MAP program could be the key that unlocks your path to success.

Examples of companies that have utilized MAP:

  • Xoran Technologies: Develop a growth strategy plan to maximize shareholder value and assess future growth.
  • Everactive: Compile a detailed industrial profile for a dozen key industrial market segments.
  • HighScope: Compose a three-to-five year strategic phased renovation and occupancy model.

To explore more projects and learn how your company can benefit from the MAP program, visit https://michiganross.umich.edu/our-community/map-sponsors.