Despite a limited number of individual successes, organisational change remains difficult to achieve and few companies manage the process as well as they would like.
Most organisational change initiatives - introducing new technology, downsizing, restructuring, or attempting to change corporate culture - have had low success rates.
What are some of the causes of failed change? Where possible, illustrate these with examples. What practices and/or processes might managers adopt to improve the prospect of successful change implementation?
Argumentative essays
An argumentative essay requires you to express one point of view and defend it. Once again below is a list of suggested guidelines for writing the essay. It is recommended that you read the summary below and if necessary consult the original source of this information which is referenced below as Smith and Smith (1988).
Suggested guidelines: The Argumentative Essay
Introduction
The introduction should have:
1. links between the topic and a recent event;
2. an issue, phrased as a question;
3. a section containing one counter-argument to your own point of view;
4. a main idea statement (MIS) which is your own point of view.
Remember: An issue is a question; it does not contain supporting reasons;
An MIS is a statement;
♦ it is the last sentence of the paragraph;
♦ it does not contain any supporting reasons;
♦ it is the answer to the question posed by the issue;
♦ most of the words in the MIS are the same as those in the issue.
Body/ Development of Topic
Each supporting paragraph should
♦ begin with a restatement of the MIS;
♦ contain only one supporting reasons;
♦ end with an example.
Remember: Supporting paragraphs should not contain any suggestions.
Conclusion
The conclusion should have a solution to the problem posed by your issue (a suggestion). Remember: This should not simply repeat your supports so far. Note: The essay is argumentative, and it is expected that whilst providing factual material on the essay topic,
you must also incorporate your opinion and justify it by providing relevant evidence/references.
Source: Smith, M. and Smith, G. (1988), A Study Skills Handbook, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.
Focus
Is your assignment clearly focused on the topic you are addressing? Do you refer to your case study organisation as a basis for discussion?
Definitions
Do you clearly define all theoretical terms and examples from empirical readings and/or your personal experience?
Reference to Appropriate Theories and Models
Are theoretical references relevant to your argument? Do you cover a sufficient range of relevant material?
Structure
Does the assignment follow a logical sequence? Are different sections clearly delineated? Do you draw together the threads of your arguments? Are there clear links among theories and examples?
Understanding and Insight
Does your essay demonstrate understanding and insight into the questions you have addressed and the material you have included?