Learning Expedition Spotlight: Strategy and Tech-Driven Innovation in Krakow
EDHEC MSc in Business Management students explored Krakow’s tech ecosystem through a Learning Expedition focused on strategy and innovation. Visits to major firms, workshops, and hands-on industry learning helped them connect academic insights with real-world practice.
As part of the MSc in Business Management programmes, students participate in immersive Learning Expeditions designed to deepen their understanding of global industries. One such journey took place in Krakow and the Malopolska Region of Poland, with a strong focus on technology-driven business models and strategic innovation. The region is increasingly recognised for its entrepreneurial dynamism and strong digital ecosystem.
We spoke with Professor Denis Dauchy, whose expertise in strategy and business modelling shaped the academic foundation of this expedition. From on-site visits to tech giants and local startups to experiential workshops on lean strategy, the expedition provided students with a compelling opportunity to connect theory with real-world business practice in a fast-evolving Central European context.
Which Master’s programmes is this Learning Expedition dedicated to?
It is open to all MSc in Business Management students. More specifically, it was designed for those enrolled in the MSc in Strategy, Organisation & Consulting (SOC), MSc in Entrepreneurship & Innovation, MSc in Marketing Management, and MSc in Marketing Analytics.
What is your area of expertise and how does it connect to the focus of this learning expedition?
My area of expertise is strategy and business modelling. This expedition was structured to highlight the specificities of business models in tech-oriented companies.
Why was Krakow and the Malopolska Region selected as the destination?
This region stands out for its high density of “Software Houses,” entrepreneurial dynamism, good educational ecosystem, and its unique geopolitical position in Central Europe. These elements create a rich environment for exploring the interplay between technology and strategy.
What were the main learning objectives for the students?
The expedition was designed to:
- Offer an “on the field” view of a dynamic ecosystem involving corporations, startups, supportive public institutions, professional associations’ initiatives, tech parks, academic institutions, and more.
- Help students decipher the link between emerging technologies—like software, A.I., and infrastructure—and strategic business models, including revenue models such as SaaS.
- Provide hands-on experience with entrepreneurial project design through lean strategy workshops, for example.
What companies or institutions did students engage with during the trip?
Students visited and interacted with a wide range of stakeholders, including Google, Cyfronet, Comarch, Crédit Agricole, Ergodesign, Pragmatic Coder, French Tech in Poland, and the Consulat Général de France, among others.
How does this experience enhance what students learn during the academic year?
It allowed students to observe on the field, engage directly with professionals, and reposition their academic learning in a tangible, real-world context. It also introduced them to a less familiar yet vibrant region, culture, and business environment.
What key skills or insights do you hope students took away from this experience?
- A stronger ability to think systemically and discern complex interdependencies.
- Deeper mastery in designing business models and strategies.
- The courage and capacity to challenge and move beyond some of their preconceived ideas.
