Organizations and Organization Theor

Video Guide

Chapter One: Organizations and Organization Theory

Video Case Title: Innovative Management for a Changing World

Organizations Discussed: Camp Bow Wow

Video Case Synopsis

With more than 150 locations, Camp Bow Wow is one of the fastest growing franchise businesses in the United States. Founded little more than a decade ago by dog-lover Heidi Ganahl, the Colorado-based kennel has earned a reputation as a fun, safe place where pets can stay when owners are away. A few years ago, when franchisee Sue Ryan joined the Camp Bow Wow system, the Boulder, Colorado, businesswoman was able to manage most aspects of the camp on her own. But after the thriving doggie day care facility proved to be more work than she could handle, Ryan hired experienced staff members to help manage the camp and provide better customer service.

Video Case Discussion Questions and Suggested Answers

1. How does Camp Bow Wow, as an organization, benefit society?

Camp Bow Wow is a for-profit organization that brings together people and resources to deliver pet care services for on-the-go pet owners. By delivering services that people need, and by doing so at a profit, the organization creates value for consumers, employees, owners, and investors. Employees of Camp Bow Wow, by working collectively, accomplish goals far beyond the capacity of any individual. As unique social entities that are goal directed, structured, and linked to the external environment, for-profit and nonprofit organizations have an important place in the modern world.

2. Is Camp Bow Wow an example of an open or closed system?

Camp Bow Wow is an example of an open system. Unlike closed systems, which do not interact with outside entities, open systems maintain constant interaction with stakeholders, customers, suppliers, competitors, and government regulators in the environment to transform inputs into outputs.

3. Which of the five parts of an organization are featured in the video?...