Week 3 · QR-3 · IBM Quantum Business Foundations + cohort seminar + use-case memo
Quantum Business Foundations
Where the technology actually sits in industry — and how to become quantum ready.
Partner: IBM Quantum · 6–8 hours (IBM course is ~2–3 hours of core content; we add application)
Why this week
After qubit intuition, people need the market and the org chart. IBM’s badge also gives the cohort a portable credential that hiring managers already recognize.
IBM’s Quantum Business Foundations course is the cleanest public map of the paradigm, the hardware/software stack, industry applications, and organizational readiness. We do not rewrite it. We teach it, then force a written judgment: what is a good use case for your domain, and what is a poor one.
Learning outcomes
- Describe the current state of quantum computing without over-claiming advantage.
- Identify industries and problem types where quantum is being explored (including financial services).
- Explain IBM’s three readiness levers: talent, use cases, and protecting against quantum threats.
- Evaluate a candidate use case as good, premature, or the wrong problem.
Modules
Start the journey and the computing paradigm
2 hours
Outcomes
- Complete IBM lessons: Start your quantum journey; Introduction to quantum computing.
- Restate why quantum will not replace classical computers.
Activities
- IBM course modules 1–2.
- Journal: one claim you will stop repeating.
Fundamentals, technology, and business impact
2–3 hours
Outcomes
- Connect week-2 qubit language to IBM’s technology lesson.
- Name two industry applications relevant to your SME.
Activities
- IBM lessons: Quantum computing fundamentals; Quantum technology; Business impacts.
- Seminar: financial services, optimization, chemistry — what is real now.
- Security-track add-on: PQC vs QKD one-pager (QRC Module 4).
- Optional: one Quantum Enigma video + SkillsBuild quiz.
How to become quantum ready + badge exam
2 hours
Outcomes
- Map strategy, technology, and operations capabilities from the IBM readiness lesson.
- Sit the IBM Training exam (optional but strongly encouraged).
Activities
- IBM lesson: How to become quantum ready.
- Write a 400-word use-case memo for your organization or a chosen sector.
- Exam at IBM Training for the Credly badge.
Deliverable
Use-case memo (good choice vs poor choice) plus, when passed, the IBM Quantum Business Foundations badge.
Assessment
Memo rubric (strategic importance, scalability, hybrid near-term path, honesty about hardware limits). Badge is recorded but not required to pass the month if the memo is strong.