Unit 12 Organisational Behaviour - Higher National Diploma in Business

Assignment - OB: Culture and Management Style

Learning Outcome 1: Evaluate the Impact of Culture, Politics, and Power on Organisational Behaviour.

Learning Outcome 2: Evaluate how to motivate individuals and teams to achieve a goal.

Learning Outcome 3: Demonstrate an understanding of how to cooperate effectively with others.

Learning Outcome 4: Apply concepts and philosophies of organisational behaviour to a given business situation.

Assignment Brief: Purpose of this assignment

The structure and culture of an organisation are key factors contributing to workforce motivation at all levels. The Japanese pioneered a culture of `continuous improvement through teamwork` in manufacturing, now exported worldwide, demonstrating how structure and culture influence workplace behavior. This unit develops understanding of organizational behavior and the role of design in shaping behavior for successful management and leadership.

Scenario:

This case focuses on US-based consumer electronics company Apple, Inc., known for innovative products. Founded in 1976 by Steven Paul Jobs, Stephen Gary Wozniak, and Ronald Gerald Wayne, Apple prioritized innovation and unique corporate culture. Analysts noted Apple`s departure from traditional hierarchy, promoting diversity and equal opportunity employment. Employees valued corporate diversity and benefits like insurance coverage and stock programs.

Experts credit Apple`s innovation to its unique corporate culture, characterized by a `Work Hard Play Hard` ethic. Apple`s culture emphasized passion for new products, intense work ethics, and relaxed yet deadline-oriented environment. The CEO, Steve Jobs, influenced Apple`s culture with his unconventional style, emphasizing creativity and results-driven approach.

Task 1:

Discuss the role of culture at Apple, Inc., and evaluate its impact on management practices. How can concepts like the organizational iceberg or cross-cultural communication maps help international managers adapt effectively?

Task 2:

Define motivation and summarize key needs and expectations influencing workplace motivation.

Task 3:

Examine the main factors contributing to effective teamwork.

Task 4:

Prepare a briefing paper comparing the effectiveness of different leadership styles at Apple.