Kay Sunderland
Student
Institutional Affiliation
Kay Sunderland
Problem Statement
Morgan and Sunderland are not cooperating in the development of training content for their client, Gramen. Morgan has called Gramen without informing Sunderland, and this violates the company’s communication policy. The current issue can cost the company because Morgan’s actions have angered the client.
Power Analysis/Root Causes
One potential cause of the problem is the different working styles of Morgan and Sunderland. Whereas Morgan works out of the box and with autonomy, Sunderland strives always to meet the expectations of the client (Hill & Beckham, 2011). Poorly defined authority relationships, especially between Sunderland and Morgan, have caused the conflict. Sunderland’s position does not grant her formal authority over Morgan.
Recommendations
First, Sunderland should hold an in-person dialogue with Morgan and find a collaborative approach to the issue. The two should resolve their differences. The method avoids tarnishing Morgan’s name to his bosses. The collaboration will help the two managers in reaching consensus on the appropriate way of serving the client. Second, Sunderland should report Morgan to Chama. The move might be necessary given that Sunderland lacks authority over Morgan. The current move can heighten differences between the two executives and their departments. Overall, the first recommendation is the best strategy for resolving the issue.
Reference
Hill, L. A., & Beckham, H. (2011). Kay Sunderland: Making the Grade at Attain Learning. Harvard Business Review.