Ridgeway Furniture is recognized for its good quality products and special furniture styles. Connie Carson is the head of the design department. She has been with the company since its beginning and reports to Dick Prindles, the president. Carson’s department size had jumped from eight to 19 by last year, including John Gilbert who was hired as her assistant to take over much of the supervisory work and administrative details. John had both supervisory experience and knowledge of furniture design. Despite John’s presence, the staff continues to seek out Carson to handle problems and questions. A second supervisor, Martin Starke, was hired specifically for the modular furniture unit.

The employees in this unit also bring problems to Carson and by-pass both Gilbert and Starke. Carson has met with staff and also privately with Gilbert and Starke in an effort to have them assume more supervisory duties. Things have not changed. She has an opportunity to move up to a VP position, but she has to get the situation fixed so she can accept the new assignment.

1. List the outward manifestations, in terms of organizational performance and/or employee behaviour, that indicate organizational results could be improved.

2. Draw the organizational chart of the company. Indicate the problems of authority, roles, and relationships. Point out the main problems and the reasons for their occurrence.

*See the last page of these instructor notes for the organizational chart.

3. How do you view the role of Carson as the head of the department?

4. What do you see as the problems of Gilbert and Starke?

5. What recommendations would you make in order to rectify the situation?