Case study paper #2 – the “team member from hell” paper
Purpose of this Assignment
Format
Structure
To show that you can use course theory and concepts to identify causes of so called “people” problems in organizations and to come up with practical solutions to fix the situation discussed in the case “The Team Member from Hell.”
The paper should contain 750 words, 12-point font, double line spacing. You will add a cover page showing your name and the name of your paper, and a reference page listing all sources cited in the paper. Cover and reference pages do not count against the word count.
· Section 1. A clear problem statement. This should be one sentence and is the foundation for the rest of the analysis. e.g., “The problem facing this team is ____”. Do not list the causes here, rather the effect of these causes: the problem.
· Section 2. Identification of the cause(s). It is your job to convince me that you have identified the true causes of the problem faced in the case by applying and citing theory and content from the course and quotes and examples from the case. Identify no more than 3 causes. For each concept you must:
o Define the theory/concept in a detailed enough way that it is clear you understand its distinctions and why it applies here.
o Persuade me that it fits this situation and helps you understand a true cause of the problem in the case.
o Support your arguments with research-based citations or paraphrases coming from external sources (the case is not considered a source).
· Section 3. Solutions
o Present two possible solutions to the problem – which you
derived from the theory and concepts you use to identify the causes of the problem. Make certain that there is a clear connection between the causes of the problem that you have identified (section 2), and these potential solutions.
o Recommend one BEST solution (selected from the two you presented). Make sure this solution is feasible and specific. Discuss why you selected this solution, the positives and negatives about this solution, what will be required to implement it, and your desired outcome.
o Explain how you would practically implement it as the consultant hired by the professor.
Grading key
Section 1: Ability to recognize a key problem and clearly express it in one sentence
Section 2: Analyze and Identify relevant root cause(s) using theories and concepts from the course
Section 3: Use of those theories and concepts to develop two feasible and specific solutions to the problem. Recommend best solution and ability to implement the solution as the consultant.
Overall: Quality and depth of Research Overall: Quality and clarity of writing Total
This assignment is shared between all sections of OB, and will be assessed using 2 drafts. This will allow you to receive a feedback on the quality and clarity of your writing, in addition to the assessment of the content from an OB standpoint.
15 pts 30
30
15
10
100 points
Writing assessment
