Case Study 1

Case Study 1: Blue Cloud Gets Agile

Liberty University

BUSI 504

Robin Groen

Abstract

This paper will analyze the implementation of a new technology in a software development company. The discussion will include the trigger events that led to the implementation of Agile (the new technology), evaluate the implementation of the change, the employee behavioral changes that were necessary for the success of the implementation, the variation of employee opinions regarding Agile, and what the CEO should consider for the future.

Keywords: trigger events, organizational development, Lewin’s Change Model

Trigger Event that Lead to the Implementation of Agile

According to Spector (2013), a trigger event is any change in the environment that precipitates the necessity for an alteration in strategies and organizational change. These triggers can lead to a change in the strategy that is utilized by the organization that can involve new markets and business models, as well as, new services and/or products, this change is called strategic renewal (Spector, 2013).

The trigger events that brought about the strategic renewal attempt by Shel Skinner, CEO of Blue Cloud, were realized when he attended a seminar that promoted technology that was aligned with the direction and ideas that he desired for his company. Not only did the shortened cycle of software release time appeal to Skinner, he also appreciated the emphasis that Agile placed on collaboration and teamwork (Spector, 2013).

Evaluation of Skinner’s Change Implementation

Before Skinner implemented any renewal strategy, he should have engaged all of the employees in the change process. Instead, he made the announcement and implemented the change without employing any non-behavioral or behavioral changes.

One change that the CEO of Blue Cloud could have focused on with employees in the beginning stages of strategic renewal, would have been the techniques and tools and transformation faces of the three faces of...