This milestone is designed to introduce the case study and begin a critical analysis applying knowledge gained within the course. This short paper assignment is the first step in your final project analysis of the company. It should begin with a brief description (one paragraph) of the case study that is being used. The largest component of this short paper should focus on the culture crisis with specific feature details as contributing factors, based on the elements listed below. This assignment will be submitted in the form of a 750-word minimum paper.
Prompt
Use the following case study for your organizational analysis: The GM Culture Crisis: What Leaders Must Learn From This Culture Case Study.
After reading the case study, address the following critical elements.
- Introduction
- How is the organization described in the case study? What are its key attributes? What are its strengths and weaknesses?
- Organizational Modeling
- Describe a current behavioral organizational model used in the case study.
- Compare the current behavioral organizational model used above to other models used within the industry and also within external related industries.
- Explain why there are differences between the organizational model used by the organization in the case study and those used by organizations in another similar industry. In other words, what are some of the reasons for using these different organizational models?
- Compare the current impact of culture on current organizational models to the impact culture has had on past organizational models.
- Explain how the organization is or is not operating within an organizational model unique to its industry.
- Explain if motivational models have shifted in comparison to the organizational modeling trends.
What to Submit
Submit assignment as a Word document with double spacing, 12-point Times New Roman font, and one-inch margins.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The case study provided focuses on the culture crisis within the organization mentioned. The organization’s attributes, strengths, and weaknesses are discussed in the case study. This analysis will address the key questions and critical elements outlined in the prompt.
Answer:
The organization described in the case study is General Motors (GM). GM is a multinational corporation in the automotive industry, known for its production and sale of cars, trucks, and automobile parts. Some key attributes of GM include its size, global reach, and historical significance. It has a strong presence in various markets worldwide and has established partnerships with other organizations in the industry to enhance its competitive advantage. GM’s strengths lie in its technological capabilities, diverse product portfolio, and brand recognition. However, the organization also faces weaknesses such as bureaucratic structure, slow decision-making processes, and a lack of effective communication channels.
Organizational Modeling:
The current behavioral organizational model used in the case study is characterized by hierarchical structures, top-down decision-making, and a focus on efficiency and cost reduction. This model emphasizes standardized procedures, functional departments, and clear lines of authority. The organizational model in the automotive industry is often influenced by the need to streamline operations, achieve economies of scale, and respond to complex regulatory requirements.
Comparative analysis reveals that other models used within the industry and related industries differ from GM’s current model. Some organizations within the automotive industry have moved towards more decentralized structures, empowering employees and enabling faster decision-making. This shift is driven by the need for greater agility and responsiveness in a rapidly changing market. External industries, such as technology and startup sectors, often embrace flatter organizational structures, fostering innovation, collaboration, and flexibility.
The differences between GM’s organizational model and others in similar industries can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, GM’s legacy as a traditional manufacturing company might make it more resistant to adopting innovative organizational models. Additionally, the complexity of GM’s operations, scale of production, and historical challenges may require a more hierarchical and centralized structure to ensure control and coordination. Furthermore, the automotive industry’s emphasis on safety standards, regulatory compliance, and supply chain management may necessitate a distinct organizational model compared to other industries.
The impact of culture on current organizational models differs from its influence on past models. In the past, GM’s culture was characterized by a vertical hierarchy, silo mentality, and resistance to change. However, as highlighted in the case study, the culture crisis at GM exposed the need for cultural transformation. The impact of culture on current organizational models emphasizes the importance of fostering openness, collaboration, and a learning mindset. It also highlights the significance of ethics, accountability, and risk management in shaping organizational behavior.
GM is operating within a somewhat unique organizational model specific to the automotive industry. While some similarities can be observed in terms of hierarchical structures and centralized decision-making, GM’s recent efforts to decentralize operations and foster a culture of empowerment differentiate it from traditional automotive manufacturers. GM has recognized the need to adapt to a more dynamic and customer-centric market environment, leading to the adoption of newer organizational practices.
Motivational models within the industry have undergone a shift compared to traditional organizational modeling trends. While efficiency and cost reduction remain important factors, motivational models now emphasize employee engagement, innovation, and continuous improvement. GM, like other organizations in the industry, is recognizing the significance of employee motivation in driving performance and fostering a culture of excellence. This shift is likely influenced by the changing expectations and preferences of employees, as well as the increasing emphasis on employee well-being and work-life balance.
In conclusion, the case study highlights GM’s organizational attributes, strengths, weaknesses, and the culture crisis it faces. The analysis of current behavioral organizational models, comparative analysis with other industries, and the impact of culture on organizational models provides insights into GM’s unique position and the evolving trends within the industry. The shift in motivational models signals the importance of adapting organizational practices to address employee needs and drive performance. This analysis sets the foundation for a more comprehensive analysis of the GM culture crisis in the final project.
