Question $01[20$ marks$]$

Read the content below and answer the following questions.

Organisational conflict

Conflict in organisations often arises when parties perceive their interests to be opposed or negatively affected by others, leading to outcomes ranging from detrimental to beneficial for individual well$-$being and organisational performance. Workplace conflict may arise from various sources, for example, personal differences, work tasks, leadership styles, or organisational policies. Workplace conflict is prevalent and requires effective resolution to maintain a harmonious atmosphere and ensure optimal performance by a company.

The Thomas$-$Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument $($TKI$)$ is a tool developed to measure an individual$$s response to conflict situations. It measures five distinct conflict management strategies, namely, competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating. Each strategy has its merits and can be leveraged according to the situation.

To contextualise the TKI model, let us consider a hypothetical scenario.

Following the merger of company TRP and company MFM to establish the new company X$,$ a restructuring initiative was undertaken to optimise resources and streamline operations. Company TRP is the majority shareholder with $60\%$ shares in Company X$,$ while Company MFM has $40\%$ shares. A new managing director was appointed for Company X and departmental positions were re$-$aligned to enhance efficiency and reduce wastage.

The former director of Company MFM brings extensive industry experience, while the former director of Company TRP has undergone extensive training in managerial education. Post$-$merger, the newly formed leadership team emphasises the importance of having one managing director to unify the organisation.

However, company MFM opposes this initiative, deeming it overreaching and unnecessary. Despite company TRP$$s financial dominance, company MFM asserts that the proposed action may not be aligned with their priorities and could undermine staff morale.

In addition, it is worth noting that company TRP$$s products have been flourishing in the market, enjoying significant success and growth. On the contrary, MFM products have stagnated, struggling to gain traction and market share. This discrepancy in product performance adds another layer of complexity to the conflict between the two companies, as it can influence perceptions of value and strategic direction going forward.

Question $01$ instructions:

Using the Thomas$-$Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument $($TKI$),$ explain the application of the five conflict management strategies, competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding, and accommodating, to resolve tension and conflict between the leaders of the newly formed company. In your answer, you need to evaluate the potential outcomes of each strategy in terms of maintaining a harmonious workplace atmosphere and ensuring optimal organisational performance.

$3$

MNB$2601$

April $2024$

Note: Please ensure that the content for question $01$ does not exceed one page, totalling no more than $550$ words.

Question $02[5$ marks$]$

The Boston Consulting Group$$s item portfolio matrix $($BCG matrix$),$ also known as the growth$/$share matrix, is a strategic planning tool that assists businesses in evaluating their product portfolio to determine where to invest, suspend, or develop items. It provides insights into which products are most promising for future growth and how to support them in gaining market share. However, despite similarities in product features between companies, some products excel in revenue generation, while others struggle to perform. Consequently, many companies face challenges in effectively managing their product portfolios. The BCG matrix categorises products into four quadrants based on an analysis of market growth and relative market share.

Question $02$ instructions:

Conduct an online search on a company of your preference and employ the BCG model to categorise only two of their products as either cash cows or stars. Ensure that your classification is substantiated, providing reasons for your categorisation.

Note: Please ensure that the content for question $02$ does not exceed half a page, totalling no more than $300$ words.

Question $03[5$ marks$]$

Read the following content and answer the questions that follow.

The expected return on the ABC Manufacturers business improvement project is subject to uncertainty as various risk factors could influence its success. Nevertheless, it is feasible to assign probabilities to several Content Five $(5)$ points will be awarded for the correct explanation of each conflict management strategy; five $(5)$ marks for the correct application of conflict management strategies; and five $(5)$ marks for the evaluation of the potential outcomes of each strategy. Technical The introduction states the main topics and provides an overview of the essay. $(1)$ Headings and subheadings are used. $(1)$ At least three $(3)$ academic sources are used $(1)$ as