DB – Organizational Structure, Systems, and Implementation

Organizational Structure, Systems, and Implementation

In this module, we explore strategy execution and learn that strategy formulation and strategy implementation cannot be separated. Strategy implementation considers broad organizational concepts such as organizational design and behavior as well as human resource management. We will also utilize a strategic viewpoint to focus on strategy implementation from a front-line perspective, particularly considering organizational structure and management systems. We will continue to learn about organizational resources and capabilities because they form the foundation from which strategy can be implemented.

Discussion Question

Question Requirements:

Read Case 6: BP: Organizational Structure and Management Systems (R.M. Grant, Contemporary Strategy Analysis, 11th ed. Wiley, 2022).

Remember that a case study is a puzzle to be solved, so before reading and discussing the specific case questions below, develop your proposed solution by following these steps:

Read the case study to identify the key issues and underlying issues. These issues are the principles and concepts of the course module which apply to the situation described in the case study.

Record the facts from the case study which are relevant to the principles and concepts of the module. The case may have extraneous information not relevant to the current course module. Your ability to differentiate between relevant and irrelevant information is an important aspect of case analysis, as it will inform the focus of your answers.

Describe in some detail the actions that would address or correct the situation.

Complete this initial analysis and then read the discussion questions. Typically, you will already have the answers to the questions but with a broader consideration. At this point, you can add the details and/or analytical tools required to solve the case.

The disastrous explosions at BP’s Texas City refinery and its Macondo oil well in the Gulf of Mexico have drawn attention to the organizational structure and management system created at BP by former CEO John Browne. 

Discuss the role that specialization with coordination and cooperation played in the BP disaster? Provide examples of organizational capabilities that could have facilitated this process.

What structure is used in your organization and is this model appropriate to the industry in which you work?  Why or Why not?

Directions:

Discuss the concepts, principles, and theories from your textbook. Cite your textbooks and cite any other sources. 

Your initial post should address all components of the question with a 600-word limit.

Learning Outcomes

Understand the processes of strategy execution.

Reconcile specialization with coordination and cooperation.

Identify organizational capabilities needed to implement strategy.

Examine types of structures and systems and how they are suited to particular contexts.