Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you will meet these learning objectives:
Analyze the business and societal value of the triple-
bottom-line framework
Analyze benefits and drawbacks of incorporating the triple
bottom line into business practices
Compare and contrast strategies for incorporating the
triple bottom line into manufacturing and service
industries
Module Overview
Welcome to QSO 321: People, Planet, and Profit! This course will help
you develop an understanding of the complexities involved in keeping
a business profitable while balancing sustainability and corporate
responsibility. You will examine how this affects small businesses and
large corporations. You will also evaluate the global aspects of
business and how businesses balance efficient operations with ethical
operations all while maintaining a positive triple bottom line (TBL).
In this module, you will learn about the TBL and how it plays a part in
both small and large businesses and the service and manufacturing
industries. The TBL framework suggests that companies place as much
of a focus on environmental and social concerns as they do on profit.
You will analyze the benefits and drawbacks of incorporating the TBL
into business practices. You will also analyze the business and societal
value of the TBL framework.
Understanding the rationale behind the TBL is very important, and
while this an easier task for smaller companies, it is more challenging
and even more important for large global entities. Global companies
have a larger footprint, which means they can more positively (or
negatively) affect the environment and society based on their
adherence to the pursuit of a TBL. For example, these companies
could take on causes such as water conservation, child labor
awareness, pollution reduction, or the implementation of ethical labor
practices. As you explore the module, reflect on the examples to get a
better understanding of how TBL concepts play out in the global
market.
Module at a Glance
This is the recommended plan for completing the reading assignments
and activities within the module. Additional information can be found
in the module Resources section and on the module table of contents
page.
1. Review the module resources and complete the webtext
questions.
2. Submit your initial discussion post.
3. Complete the assignment.
4. Reply to at least two peers in the discussion.
