MBA 755-Reflections on Module 1 Concepts

What’s distinctive about the renewal stage of the organizational lifecycle?

The renewal stage is the “point of no return” for a business. It will either renew and reinvigorate or it will move into decline and closure.

What organizations that you are familiar with seem to be in the renewal stage? Why do you think so?

SBC/AT&T is a prime example. Many years ago, the telephone industry was broken up by the government and “Ma Bell” ended up being a series of independent, regional telephone service providers. In recent years, after a series of mergers and buyouts, SBC has now become known as AT&T. The old telephone service of days gone by is no longer viable. Through all these mergers, the “new” AT&T has added services to stay competitive with cable companies, who are now offering their own phone service. The “new” AT&T offers the ability to purchase home phone service, long distance phone service, cellular (formerly Cingular), and television (currently via Dish Network). They are also experimenting in some markets with fiber optic television delivery. This company shows definite signs of renewal in trying to adapt to meet the needs of the day.

What characteristics make a leader effective during this phase?

The leaders in this phase are strong decision makers. They know how to make the tough decisions that have to be made in order to move forward. Another important aspect of these leaders is that they are able to pull the company together. They are effective at communicating the news needed but keeping everyone focused on what needs to be done.

How would you recognize an organization in this stage?

Age is one factor. A review of product offerings/markets can also tell you if products are being renewed or declining.

Which of the conceptual tools for renewal presented in this module are of particular interest to you? Why?

I will have to research this question more. I’m not sure what “conceptual tools” this is referring to.

What else do you think that you will need to know in order to use these conceptual tools in your own work?

See previous question.

How could you use the ideas from the renewal stage to help you in your professional life?

My current business is one that is moving into the renewal phase. The ideas that we will review during this segment will be beneficial to help me understand what to watch for in our business. It should also allow me to make more educated decisions as to product design and marketing ideas that I have input on.

September 30, 2007 | Filed Under MBA 755 

Comments

One Response to “MBA 755-Reflections on Module 1 Concepts”

  1. Steve Cummings on October 2nd, 2007 10:25

    Hi Brian. Good post overall. I would submit that the renewal may or may not be the point of no return based on the purpose of the renewal strategy. Thanks, and good post.

    Steve

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