Competing in a case challenge was a first for some of us. The structure of the 2010 CIMA Global Business Challenge was unlike many of the presentations we have had in school, and it was certainly an eye opener. However, taking part in this was an opportunity we did not let go. It offered the chance for us to be involved in management accounting at an international level and challenge ourselves.

We juggled between our heavy academic schedule and the case, and aimed to bring useful lessons learnt from the academic arena and integrate them into the business scenario. 

Given the number of teams that applied, getting to the Singapore Finals was certainly not easy. We relooked at our case and brainstormed on the most effective way to put our ideas across in a refreshing manner. Amidst our hectic internship programs, we strived to find time to coordinate and work together efficiently and effectively.

The experience was a memorable one. With different backgrounds and expertise, each of us saw things in a different light and we strived to bring together unique insights that would bring value to our client.

Teamwork and open-mindedness are two key factors to our success. Besides leveraging on each other’s distinctive strengths to improve our efficiency, we challenged each other’s viewpoints in a constructive manner and helped facilitate discussion and generation of new ideas.

A great deal could be learned from the varying cases presented during the Singapore Final as we began to see how the dynamics of the teams and the strength of each of their teammates could complement each other. Each team showed different strengths and analyzed the case in unique angles, showcasing different perspectives that are worth learning from.

With the intensity of the competition, we are honored to be elected as the best team. With feedback from the judges, audience, other teams and each other, we will aspire to improve and engage the International Finals with renewed vigor!