Clark Faucet

Case Study

Clark Faucet

1. What is the critical issue?

The critical problem identified from the case is a lack of coordination between the different departments which arises because of prevalence of a non-cooperative culture. The organizational setting or the extent to which the different organizational units would cooperate and assist in the proposed project is the area of concern. Since the development of new project would interconnect each department of the organization, there needs to be more cooperation, otherwise the conflict among departments may increase. Organization culture plays an important role in defining the way individuals, teams and departments within an organization interact or behave. The prevailing culture at Clark Faucet Company is an important source of the concern prevalent in the organization.

2. What can be done about it?

When a new product is developed, it is important consider the inputs from different stakeholders. The marketing department provides ideas and requirements for new product development based on their direct interaction with the customers /end users and customer feedbacks. The technical team analyses the technical feasibility of the new product and develops the new product. To address the critical problem, the organization needs to work on its organizational culture and change its organizational culture. Alongside, it needs to change the organizational structure of the company. The company needs to create a matrix organization structure. This will help in forming cross functional teams that will help employees in better understanding of the functions of different department and improve communication between departments.

3. Can excellence in project management still be achieved and, if so, how? What steps would you recommend?

The excellence in project management can be achieved if the issues with organizational culture and organizational structure are addressed. The steps that are recommended are as follows:...