JWI 510: Leadership in the 21st Century
Introduction
Begin your paper with an introduction paragraph. Your introduction should be succinct and to the point. Typically, an introduction will start with a brief and general observation about the paper’s topic. Then, you will include a thesis statement or sentence in which you will drill down to specific areas you plan to address in your paper in the order in which you plan to address them. Because of this, sometimes the introduction is not finalized until you complete the other sections of your paper. You can refer to your headings to help you develop your thesis statement since those identify the topics to be addressed. A clearly defined thesis statement helps the reader navigate your work. Your thesis statement is the “road map” to your paper.
The Case: Problems and Successes
This section provides a brief background on the case and specifically identifies the Executive Team’s problems and successes. This section, including the sub-sections, should be direct and concise (suggested length 1-2 pages). Here, under the main heading, provide some brief background information (in your own words) about the Blake Sports Apparel and Switch Activewear case. It is important to concisely summarize the case in your own words. However, be sure to cite the case study whenever borrowing information, such as statistics and other data. Then, you may use the following subheadings to succinctly identify the problems (specifically the dysfunctions and risks to the business) and successes/strengths.
Dysfunctions and Risks to the Business
In this sub-section, identify the executive team’s dysfunctions that are impacting the business. Then, explain what you think are the biggest risks this business is currently facing. As you explain your position, be sure to cite specific examples to illustrate the potential impact of these risks. For honor’s level work—share unique insights related to the dysfunctions and risks in a clear, concise and well-supported manner.
Successes and Strengths
Despite the dysfunctions, Blake Sports Apparel and this Executive Team have a long track record of wins and high performance. As a contrast to the dysfunctions discussed above, use this sub-section to summarize the key successes and positive characteristics of this organization. Then, identify and explain the strengths of the Executive Team. For honor’s level work—share unique insights regarding the successes and strengths in a clear, concise and well-supported manner.
Analysis
In the following sub-sections, analyze the possible causes for the team’s dysfunctions. For honor’s level work, demonstrate critical analysis, excellent synthesis of ideas and an understanding of course concepts along with your own unique insights. (Suggested length of analysis section which includes the sub-sections below: 2-5 pages.) Under this main “Analysis” heading, you may want to provide a short paragraph introducing what you will be covering below. However, the in-depth analysis should occur in the following sub-sections.
Impact of Early Entrepreneurial Success
Write a paragraph explaining how the company’s early entrepreneurial success might have sown the seeds for dysfunction as the business grew. Be sure to cite specific examples for support.
Trust, Communication and Information Sharing
In this section, explain how you would characterize the level of trust, communication and information sharing among the Executive Team. Cite specific examples and connect to course material for support.
Impacts on Team Performance and Cohesion
Write a paragraph that explains the ways that alignment (or lack of alignment) around goals and incentives impact team performance and cohesion. Cite specific examples and connect to course material for support.
Team Structures and Decision-Making Processes
Write about the ways the current team structures and decision-making processes are impacting the business. Cite specific examples and connect to course material for support.
CEO’s Leadership Style
In this section, explain the ways that CEO Cameron Barker’s leadership style and history with the company contribute to the team’s dysfunctions. Cite specific examples and connect to course material for support.
Note: This is the end of Assignment 2 Part 1.