Problem:
Toyota's recent recall crisis is an example of how core competencies can take decades to build but risk the dangers of being lost in a short time. Toyota is known for its superior quality and dependability, core competencies build within its value chain which encompasses critical linkages in its systems such as lean manufacturing, JIT (just-in-time), continuous improvement (kaizen), and genchi genbutsu (going to the source of a problem to study it oneself). Its distinctive culture is embedded in the Toyota Way.
However, the recall crisis reveals some significant weaknesses. Some commentators including Toyota's managers have attributed the failures to rapid growth and complacency generated by success and becoming the No.1 world car company. The Fortune article points to weaknesses in how Toyota implements its global strategy and elements of its organisation culture and structure.
Discuss the weaknesses of Toyota's global organisation structure and how these weaknesses impact its value chain and may have contributed to its recent problems.