Discussion Question
Each question requires 1 reference answers do not need to be drawn out but READ each question and answer all parts of the question.
Part I: Why Can't We All Just Get Along?
Change initiatives, by their very nature, generate some form of conflict. Some conflicts may be a natural expression of resistance to new circumstances that take people out of their comfort zone. Other conflicts arise when employees feel alienated, threatened, or unsupported in what they are being asked to do. In some situations, the conflict may become so serious that it poses a larger threat, as stakeholders compete for positions or even plot to sabotage the entire change initiative.
i. What can HR leaders do to identify and address potential conflicts before they occur?
ii. How can HR leaders support and encourage employees to push forward with change, even if it may lead to a loss or change of their own jobs?
iii. In merger situations, what can be done to minimize tensions between old competitors, and get people aligned with the new vision and mission?
Part II: Continuing the "People First" Mission
Leading change by putting people first is a noble aspiration. It has been the central theme of this course, but one could argued it is the most prominent theme in the entire JWMI MBA program. Sustaining this focus and building a culture that embraces this ideal requires that senior leadership beyond the HR department: (a) believes this approach will lead to a competitive advantage, and (b) commits to the practices to make it happen.
As our course draws to a close, share your insights on the following:
i. What can we do as HR leaders to ensure that a "people first" agenda is truly embedded in the culture?
ii. How can we ensure the changes we want to drive connect practices that put people first with competitive strength?
iii. How will you apply change leadership differently based on what you learned in this and your other HR concentration courses?
iv. What's next in your own professional change journey?
Part III: Your Learning from the Tio case
Austin talked about what he learned from the stories of previous product launches that came from other cultures, such as hummus and Greek yogurt. Think about the Tio Gazpacho story that you have been following throughout this course.
What have you learned from Austin's experience that could help you in your workplace or your studies? You can relate Tio's story to the "big idea" for your course project, or you may relate it to other challenges in your professional life.
Part IV: Best Innovation Pitch
Hosts a friendly class competition. First, create and post a pitch on why your innovation business plan is "best in class." Using the prompts below as a guide, write a succinct pitch for your innovation business plan:
i. Briefly describe your new product or service
ii. What is exciting and innovative about your product or service?
iii. How are you financing your project, and when will it break even?
iv. Explain why your product or service will succeed in the market?
v. Why should your peers vote for your innovation pitch?
The response should include a reference list. Using double-space, Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.