After reading the Kenan Systems case, respond to the following issues in written form.
1. Based on your readings about teams, is the team approach and the use of self-managed teams appropriate for this type of organization? If so, what are the key attributes that make this approach successful?
2. Kenan Sahin described the organization as an upside-down mound with team as the organic building block of the company. What are the pros and cons of this type of structure?
3. What OB predictions might you make as the company faces the risks identified by Sahin in looking toward the future?
4. What are your views about the AAWE hiring model? About Sahin’s views concerning company ownership and compensation? With a workforce of high achievers, what motivation approach would you use to keep employees from leaving? [MO3.2]
FYI: Update on Kenan Systems:
• Kenan Systems was acquired by Lucent in March of 1999 in a stock deal worth $1.48 billion.
• Lucent unloaded Kenan to CSG Systems in late 2001 for $260 million.
• Kenan Smith has a new venture: TIAX
