Donna Dubinsky and Apple Computer

Module Four: Written Assignment 2

Michael Ganaway

MSM 6400

July 10, 2013

As companies today strive for success in the market place, it is the efficiency of the top management in the company, which usually determines whether or not they are able to achieve their goals. Many of these goals and values incorporate concepts surrounding quality products and services, innovation, team spirit, and efficient management, just to name a few. However, many times a disconnect in one or more of these areas can cause communication barriers, leading to various organizational conflicts and problems. In the case of Donna Dubinsky and Apple Computer, Inc. a sudden unexpected change has contributed to such organizational conflict and a break down in many of the necessary communication lines (Jick & Gentile, 1987).

Why was Dubinsky initially so successful at Apple?

Star performers who have been rewarded for their individual contributions and have come to expect wide latitude in how they work, then becoming a manager can be a mixed blessing. These words aptly describe the career of Donna Dubinsky at Apple Computer. Donna’s case highlights key issues in organizational strategic direction and hierarchical structure; it illustrates power and influence, and the emotional effects of change. Donna graduated from Yale, worked in commercial banking for 2 years. Then she earned an MBA from Harvard University. In July1981, she joined Apple as customer support liaison. Within 4 years, she became the Director of distribution and sale administration. Donna reported to Roy Weaver. Why Donna was so successful in her organization? She was very direct and intelligent, She was not position climber in her career, she fought for her subordinates, She always had the company interest in her heart, She was confident and had nonpolitical views, Ready to take risks, Power of presence, She had refined and formalized the Apple distribution policy, She introduced a simple, systematic, efficient...