Herman Miller Inc.
Prepare ONE case analysis from a group of cases that will be discussed in class during the semester. Each case will have a list of several assigned questions specific to the case for students to answer. These assigned case questions are posted on Blackboard under “Assignments.” The individual case analysis must be submitted at the start of class on the day the case is discussed. Case analyses will not be accepted late.
This is an individual assignment so you may not discuss it with anyone else nor may you use content prepared by others. No outside data (beyond the information provided in the case) should be used in preparation of the case assignment. It must be submitted through SafeAssign.
This is not a research paper. Therefore, students do not need to follow MLA/APA Style formats nor cite paragraphs from the textbook. However, students MUST follow a business style format included below for their case analysis submission. Not following these guidelines will reduce your final score by one letter grade.
Individual Case Analysis FORMAT Guidelines:
– Cover page with the case name and date. Number all your pages.
– Length of 7-8 pages, double-spaced, justify, Times New Roman 12 pt. font, 0.75’’-inch margins all around.
– Write your name on a separate page at the end of your analysis. This allows me to grade your assignment with objectivity.
– Include the number of the case question being answered, but DO NOT type the case questions in the body of your paper. Do this instead: (1), (2), (3)
– May contain no more than 5 exhibits or tables regarding your analysis, but the main findings from those appendices must be included in the body of your paper. Exhibits and appendices do not count towards the page length of your paper. Needless to say that the cover page & final page with your name does not count either!
– You must submit your case through SafeAssign the same day you turn in the printed copy of your case to your instructor.
ASSIGNMENT QUESTIONS
1. Describe Herman Miller’s strategy. Is there evidence it has produced a competitive advantage and good financial performance? Explain.
2. How have the company’s values shaped its strategy and approach to strategy execution? Provide illustrations of how these values are reflected in company policies.
3. How you describe HMI’s financial situation? How does its performance compare to prior years? The competition?
4. Until 2003, HMI offered lifelong employment. How did this practice affect the company’s ability to staff the organization with managers and employees capable of executing the strategy? How did this practice build the organizational capabilities required for successful strategy execution?
5. Do non-monetary incentives facilitate strategy execution at HMI? Explain.
6. Describe the culture at HMI. Would you characterize HMI’s culture as healthy and largely supportive of good strategy execution? Explain.
7. What recommendation would you make to Herman Miller’s CEO Brian Walker to improve the company’s current financial performance? Does the company need to radically alter its strategy because of poor economic conditions? Should it improve its approach to implementing the strategy to reduce costs and improve efficiency? Explain.