DDBA 8582 Week 4 Discussion 1 Restructuring and Strategy (D1–W4) {**** 3 Pages solution *****}

Weeks 4–5: Operationalizing the Plan

Strategic plans drive the organizations operating plans at every department level. Once you have an operating plan on paper, it needs to be operationalized, or implemented. Executing the plan can uncover other challenges that might not have been considered or expected during the original analysis. Change management strategies to overcome resistance, or possibly minor adjustments to the plan, might need to occur as it is operationalized since the business environment is in constant flux. For this 2–week unit, you examine possible effects of various strategies, such as downsizing, and the legal and ethical considerations related to these strategies. You also examine internal resistance to change once the reality of personal impact is recognized. 

Discussion 1: Restructuring and Strategy (D1–W4)

Participants:

One approach to improving organizational productivity is restructuring the organization and restructuring human capital and how it is utilized. Human resource (capital) restructuring can involve cutting staff through downsizing, layoffs, and early retirement buyout programs (Mathis & Jackson, 2011). There are a few choices that organizations can select from if downsizing or restructuring occurs. Each approach has advantages and disadvantages that can affect an HR operating plan. For this Discussion, you focus on how downsizing or restructuring might affect an operating plan.

By Day 3 of Week 4

Based on this week’s readings and your own academic research, respond to the following discussion questions/prompts in the Discussion 1 – Week 4 thread.

• Explain one reason why an organization should adhere to a no–layoff philosophy when restructuring.
• Explain how a no–layoff policy might affect the strategic plan if downsizing is needed.
• What downsizing strategy (elimination by seniority, performance, or position) should be utilized to provide a smooth transition while reducing staff? Provide a rationale for your decision.
• Explain one legal or ethical consideration related to downsizing strategies that might offset the rationale to downsize.
• Should employing the owners’ family members affect a restructuring plan? Explain why or why not.