Assignment task:
Troy is the plant general manager for one of the two manufacturing plants for Galaxy RV, a company that builds recreational vehicles. The vehicles Galaxy builds have a sticker price of around $150,000, and classify as motorhomes rather that trailers attached to an automobile or pickup truck. Sales for the various Galaxy models have accelerated in recent years, but the pandemic provided an enormous sales boost. In fear of being contaminated in hotels, other resorts, and in public transportation, thousands of people thought that an RV would protect them from the dangers of COVID-19. As one customer said in reference to an RV parked on a dealer's lot, "It's got a sink, a stove, and a shower. I'll take it."
When the pandemic subsided, the enlarged fan base for RVs remained loyal. Although market forecasts vary, it appears that the motorhome outlook for the next decade is positive. Troy became quite optimistic about the present and future of Galaxy, but he thought that not all members of his management team and the rest of the workforce shared his enthusiasm. Troy thought that he could do a better job of inspiring Galaxy workers to take their work more seriously.
Troy's first attempt at inspiration was during a management team meeting conducted at 8:30 one Monday morning. He stood up and addressed the rest of the team seated around a table, with these words. "Do you folks realize that we are on the cusp of a revolution at Galaxy RV? We are helping change the way people in the United States, Canada, and other countries are spending their leisure time. Instead of being confined to a hotel or an Airbnb, our customers are hitting the open road so they can cruise along in their own motorized home. In some of our bigger models, two families at a time are experiencing joy, happiness, and love at the same time.
"To capitalize on this revolution in recreation, I need every one of you and your direct and indirect reports to work harder and smarter. I want to see Galaxy RVs built more quickly and with fewer defects. Our sales are climbing, but we have to work harder to get some inventory to meet dealer demand. Think of each Galaxy we build as a potential safe and trusted home on wheels for loved ones of your own. If we can build more of these world class queens of the road, our dealers will find more customers. Our future is up to you."
Lance, the operations manager, responded, "I hear you Troy, but our entire manufacturing group is already working at top speed. If we work any faster, that could mean manufacturing defects, and possible recalls."
Wendy, the procurement and materials manager, said with her eyes close to tearing, "Troy, thanks for framing the importance of what we do here at Galaxy. I'm sure that your words will help my staff be even more productive."
Based on these first two comments, Troy thought that his message might be working, but that he might have to try again. One possibility would be to deliver a similar message to the entire plant via a videoconference.
Q1. What is your evaluation of the effectiveness of Troy's inspirational message?
Q2. What other influence tactics might Troy use to ramp up production at his Galaxy RV plant?