Problem:
Controlling represents a very important function of management. Necessary at all levels and all aspects of the organization, controls should be applied to organizational design, planning, employee performance, etc., among many other functions. Different types of controls are applied at various levels of the organization including corporate office, divisions within the company, and at the facility and department level as well.
Lack of control can lead to costly delays, financial losses, and have other undesired consequences.
GM is a well known car manufacturer that has been on quite a roller coaster ride the last several years due to the economy. However, in order to compete in today's market, all automobile manufacturers must maintain excellence in quality and utilize management control techniques and technologies.
Write a 2-3 page essay describing the implementation of lean manufacturing at the Lansing Grand River Assembly (LGRA) plant.
To what extend does lean manufacturing help GM to control production to meet customer needs, and how does this help to make GM competitive?
Do you think the implementation of Lean provides a good example of the 'control' aspect of management?