Begin by copying and pasting the Part 2 template into your Part 1 document. Next make any revisions needed to strengthen Part 1 and update your References List for Part 1 to keep the numbering sequence correct. Then proceed to Part 2.
You are to review the Blake Sports Apparel and Switch Activewear case study again. Your paper should include an Executive Summary to identify key points of the paper. A paragraph of 120 words that summarizes the problem or issue, possible causes, and solutions.
Next:
1. Read the case, Blake Sports Apparel and Switch Activewear: Bringing the Executive Team Together
2. Write a 4 6 page paper to address the following:
a. Risk to the Business: Despite the success of the business and the talent of individual team members, the Executive Team at Blake Sports Apparel suffers from a number of dysfunctions that are impacting the business. What are the biggest risks this business is currently facing? Explain your position and cite specific examples from the case to illustrate the potential impact of these risks.
b. Successes: Its a natural tendency when exploring team dysfunction to focus only on the negative; however, Blake Sports Apparel and this Executive Team have a long track record of wins and high performance. Summarize the key successes and positive characteristics of this organization. What are the strengths of the Executive Team?
c. Analysis: Explore the possible causes for the teams dysfunction, using the questions below to guide you. Include specific examples from the case to support your analysis.
i. How might the companys early entrepreneurial success have sown the seeds for dysfunction as the business grew?
ii. How would you characterize the level of trust, communication and information sharing among this group?
iii. In what ways do alignment (or lack of alignment) around goals and incentives impact team performance and cohesion?
iv. In what ways are the current team structures and decision making processes impacting the business? v. In what ways do CEO Cameron Barkers leadership style and history with the company contribute to the teams dysfunction?
Professional Formatting Requirements:
Typed, double spaced professional font (size 10-12), includes headings and subheadings, with one-inch margins on all sides.
References must be included and provide accurate information that enables the reader to locate the original source. Application and analysis of course materials and resources is expected, and additional research is welcome.
Remember for this paper you are writing from the perspective of a leadership consultant to Cameron Barker. You are required develop and find ways to improve teamwork and resolve conflicts more effectively within the Blake Sports Apparel organization.
Your content should include discussion on the following the questions:
What can Barker do to increase trust and improve communication?
How can Barker incentivize the teams to improve alignment and meet their collective goals?
What can be done to make team meetings more effective?
Should Barker change the teams either in terms of team leadership and members and/or or overall structure? Explain.
What, if anything, does Barker need to change about his own leadership style and his behaviors in order to make his Executive Team more effective?
What, additional actions should Barker take to improve team dynamics and performance and ensure that both Blake Sports Apparel and Switch Activewear improve collaboration and thrive in their market segment?
Your narrative should be based on the concepts presented during the term as well as relevant external sources rather than your opinion.
Additional Tasks for your to do list:
1. Update the Introduction section in Part 1 to include your thesis statement.
2. Write your Conclusion.
3. After you have completed your narrative you will then write your Executive Summary.
4. Remember to change all the font to black.
5. Revise your Reference List to include new materials/sources used to develop your recommendations.
