Case Study: Unit 4 - Negotiating, Power & Politics
Choose a famous business conflict. It could be one you're familiar with or you may choose something "new to you". It can be a conflict that has been resolved or is ongoing. Ensure the conflict you choose has enough depth and information for a thorough analysis. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:
Steve Jobs vs Steve Wozniak
Elon Musk vs the Tesla Board
Bill Gates vs. Paul Allen
Sheryl Sandberg vs. Facebook (Meta) Board
Michael Eisner vs. Roy E. Disney
Mark Zuckerberg vs. take your pick
2. Provide a detailed yet concise overview of the conflict. Include the key players, core issues, timeline, consequences (both positive and negative), and current status of the conflict. Who is/was "fighting"; what are/were they fighting about; how long has/had it been going on; what are/were the consequences; is the conflict over or is it still going?
3. Identify the types of power each party wielded and provide examples.
4. Identify the political tactics used and provide examples.
5. Using all of your resources (I've given you a TON this week in the supplemental material, but feel free to dig up more - make sure you're using citations appropriately) analyze the conflict. Assess whether the conflict is healthy or unhealthy. Discuss the strategies used by both parties, such as collaboration, avoidance, competition, etc.
6. Finally, tell me how you would fix it based on what you have learned. Don't tell me you're going to sit them in a room together to hash it out - that NEVER works - people say they're fine, and I promise, they're not - nothing changes, except now they're just subversive with their conflict...
Clearly define the role you will take in resolving the conflict (outsider looking in, consultant brought in, Chairman of the Board, largest shareholder, Venture Capitalist brought in to take over).
Specify the leadership style(s) you will use
Detail the influence tactics you will employ, such as rational persuasion, inspirational appeals, or consultation.
Provide a step-by-step plan for resolution. If using a coach, specify their role, expertise, and the strategies they will employ, and final outcome.
Consider legal, ethical, and practical implications of your actions (including firing or other drastic measures).
You must come up with a legitimate plan - not "I'm tired of the bs, I'm shutting it down and moving to Costa Rica", though I'm sure many would prefer to do that..
Formatting:
Use APA or MLA format (whichever you're most familiar with)
Make sure you include an introduction and conclusion.