1.Why do organizational structures differ? What is the difference between a mechanistic structure and an organic structure? Which structure would be most appropriate for an innovative organization like Apple or 3M? What about an organization that focuses on cost-minimization like Wal-Mart?
a.Do you think most companies have structures that simply evolved over time or are they conscious choices made by the management team?
b.As mentioned strategy as one factor in determining an organization's structure. Do you think that Wal-mart is continually reviewing its structure to ensure that the focus of all departments remains on cost minimization?
2.Organizational culture is in many ways beneficial for an organization and its employees, but it can also be a liability. What do you think are the most significant ways that organizational culture is beneficial? A liability? Be sure to provide specific examples.
a.As you look at the news reports each day, which company do you think has a very strong culture and what would you say are the characteristics of that culture?
3.An effective manager accepts the political nature of organizations. Power tactics are used to translate power bases into specific action, and there are a number of tactics that could be used in various situations. As a manager trying to influence your employees, what tactics would you personally be most likely to use? Why?
4.What is the difference between the position a person holds in a company and their political power? Is the top executive in an organization always the person who holds the most political power? Explain your answer.