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Glass Transport is a long-established bulk transport provider, which has recently taken a decision to invest in becoming a national parcel delivery service - VCE - SSCE Business Management - Question 2 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 2
Glass Transport is a long-established bulk transport provider, which has recently taken a decision to invest in becoming a national parcel delivery service. The oppo... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Glass Transport is a long-established bulk transport provider, which has recently taken a decision to invest in becoming a national parcel delivery service - VCE - SSCE Business Management - Question 2 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
Discuss an appropriate management structure for Ms Glass’s expanding business.
Answer
A suitable management structure for Ms Glass's expanding parcel delivery service would be a divisional structure. This approach groups employees according to specific tasks, such as parcel delivery, logistics, and customer service, allowing for specialization and improved performance. Moreover, this structure provides the flexibility needed to adapt to the rapidly changing parcel delivery market.
Each division can operate with a degree of autonomy, focusing on its specific goals, such as delivering high-quality service to customers. This decentralization encourages innovation and quicker decision-making within divisions, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Step 2
Identify two characteristics of this management style, and explain one advantage and one disadvantage of using this style.
Answer
Two key characteristics of the consultative management style are:
- Two-way Communication: In this style, managers seek input from employees before making decisions, fostering a collaborative environment.
- Decision-making Involvement: Employees are involved in the decision-making process, allowing their opinions to influence the final outcomes.
Advantage: This style enhances employee engagement and morale, leading to increased job satisfaction and motivation as employees feel valued. Disadvantage: However, it can be time-consuming; the manager must spend additional time gathering opinions and feedback, which may delay decision-making.
Step 3
Define each role and explain how the use of these roles will contribute to her new national parcel delivery service.
Answer
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Organising: This involves arranging the organisation’s resources to achieve set objectives. Ms Glass needs to structure her team effectively, ensuring that each role is clear, to streamline operations in the new parcel delivery service.
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Leading: This refers to motivating and directing employees towards achieving the organisation’s goals. Ms Glass can lead her teams by providing clear directions and inspiring them to excel in customer service.
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Controlling: This role entails monitoring progress towards goals and making adjustments as needed. By setting service standards and implementing performance reviews, Ms Glass can ensure quality service in her parcel delivery operations. These roles collectively contribute to a well-regulated, efficient, and motivated workforce, essential for the success of the parcel delivery service.
Step 4
Describe Locke’s theory of motivation and explain how Ms Glass could use this theory to motivate staff.
Answer
Locke’s Goal-Setting Theory posits that goal-setting is intrinsically linked to performance improvement. According to this theory, specific and challenging goals can enhance performance as they stimulate effort and persistence.
Ms Glass can leverage this theory by setting clear, achievable, and challenging goals for her staff in the parcel delivery service. For example, establishing performance targets, such as delivery times or customer satisfaction ratings, can motivate employees to work towards these objectives. Furthermore, involving employees in the goal-setting process allows them to take ownership of their roles, boosting their commitment and motivation.