Organizational Design and Strategic Innovation MLI501

Subject Title

Subject Code

MLI501

Assessment

Case Study

Individual/Group

Group

Length

2000 words +/- 10%

Learning Outcomes

1, 2, 3

Submission

Week 9 Friday 8 November 2024 5pm

Weighting

30%

Total Marks

30

Context

The scenario allows students to apply the concepts and theories covered to date and reflect on these concepts in their analysis. Students demonstrate academic writing and referencing skills in presenting their responses.

Instructions

Students critically analyse a case study (scenario) and answer three questions based on the case study.

The answers should be presented in the following manner:

An assignment cover page (on the learning resources page)

Each answer separately numbered eg Answer 1

Use 12 pt. Calibri font.

State the word count at the end of each question and total word count at the end.

Include a reference list complying with the APA referencing style at the end of the answers. See Learning Resources page for information on referencing.

You will be assessed against criteria as outlined in the AT2 Case study marking rubric.

Students should use a minimum of 10 scholarly resources across the three answers.

Case Study: Reenergizing Acme Inc. Through Strategic Design

Acme Inc., a traditional manufacturer of household goods, faced a decline in sales and a disengaged workforce. The leadership recognized the need for a strategic refresh to remain competitive in the ever-evolving market. They embarked on an organizational design and strategy initiative, centered on human-centered design principles.

The Challenge:

• Declining sales and market share

• Disengaged workforce with low morale

• Siloed departments hindering collaboration

• Inflexibility in adapting to changing customer preferences

The Design Approach:

Acme implemented a human-centered design approach, focusing on the needs of both customers and employees. This involved:

• Customer research:Understanding evolving customer needs and preferences through surveys, focus groups, and competitor analysis.

• Employee engagement:Conducting workshops and interviews to understand employee pain points and aspirations.

• Process mapping:Identifying inefficiencies and bottlenecks within the organization.

• Prototyping and iteration:Developing and testing new strategies and structures through design thinking methodologies.

The Results:

The design-led approach led to a significant transformation at Acme:

• Strategic shift:Acme pivoted towards more sustainable and innovative products, aligning with customer preferences.

• Empowered workforce:A flatter organizational structure with cross-functional teams fostered collaboration and ownership.

• Improved communication:Regular town halls and communication channels addressed employee concerns and fostered transparency.

• Increased efficiency:Streamlined processes reduced waste and improved production speed.

The Questions:

1. How can Acme leverage its design-led approach to continuously adapt to future market changes? Students should describe design-led approach and discuss its links to innovation and culture. (11 marks)
2. What measures can Acme track to assess the long-term success of its new strategy and organizational design? (8 marks)
3. How can Acme ensure effective communication and employee buy-in as the organization continues to evolve? Students should focus on leadership communication and consider the role of teams in organisational communication. (11 marks)

Submission Instructions:

You will submit the case study answers via the Turnitin link in Studyhub.