Discussion Question 1

• Simons (2010) proposes seven questions applicable to evaluating organizational behaviors and strategic performance during each strategy review session. Answer four of the questions for an organization with which you are familiar. Discuss specific organizational behavioral changes that you feel would correct deficiencies revealed by each of the four questions.

• BY ALL MEANS, FEEL FREE TO USE YOUR WEEK 4 TOPIC, OR, EXXON MOBIL, AND, THE ARTICLE I SENT IN ANNOUNCEMENTS, TO HELP FORM YOUR RESPONSE

Shareholders, Employees, or Customers First?

• One of Simons' (2010) questions asks you to determine whether the organization's shareholders, employees, or customers come first. Consider which comes first in an organization with which you're familiar. Discuss the specific behaviors exhibited by the organization as a result of that choice, and consider how that choice might affect strategic performance and employee retention.

Use this Readings to answer the question

• Simons, "Stress-Test Your Strategy: The 7 Questions to Ask"

Discussion Question 2

Option 1

Organizational Complexity

• Describe any source of complexity that may inhibit the change initiative you have proposed or describe a source of complexity that has effected your organization in the past.

Option 2

Change Leadership Challenge

• Which of the change leadership skills or behaviors have you personally found to be most challenging to-date? Why? Where do you see your most immediate area for growth?

Use these Readings to answer question

• Kotter, Chapter 9: Consolidating Gains and Producing More Change
• Ashkenas, Chapter 1: Unmasking Organizational Complexity
• Ashkenas, "Beware Self-Inflicted Complexity"
• Ashkenas, "Are Your Acquisitions Creating Complexity?"
• Welch, "Lay off the Layers"
• Beinhocker, Davis, &Mendonca, "The 10 Trends You Have to Watch"