Case Questions
Chapter 1 - S-S TECHNOLOGIES INC.
OBJECTIVES
1. To acquaint students with the case analysis method. 2. To observe structural and contextual variables in an organizational situation. 3. To redesign an ongoing organization. 4. To develop organizational structure for innovative employees.
Like the Xerox case which opens Chapter 1, this case can serve as a point of reflection throughout the semester. More advanced issues regarding organizational structure (chapter 3), change (chapter 11), and compensation as a reward system (chapters 12 and 13) can be developed later.
SUGGESTED STUDY QUESTIONS
1. Analyze structural and contextual variables at the beginning of this case. (This can be done by referencing the textbook’s section of Dimensions of Organization Design, or by tabulating applicable dimensions as we did in the workbook activity.) 2. What are the goals, key success factors, culture, and people that SST top management want in place? 3. What goals, structure, and relationships do you believe are more appropriate for SST? 4. What process should be used to implement a new organizational design? 5. Are your recommendations different from what they would be if the employees were not motivated and innovative?
Chapter 2. - THE UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM
Assume the role of the dean in identifying the possible decisions before the next faculty meeting. They should generate two or three alternatives in answer to each of the first two questions. You can use the third question as the basis for class discussion.
1. What are the possible purposes of the University Museum?
2. Who are or should be its customers?
3. What implications for the structure of the museum, the qualifications of its director, and its relationship to the university follow from the above defined purposes and customers?
CASE FOR ANALYSIS ~ Airstar, Inc.
1. Is it