Question Tag: Organizational Objectives

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The successful implementation of corporate strategy depends, in part, on effective management of human resources within an organization.

Required:

Explain FIVE (5) human resource management functions that can help accomplish organizational objectives. (10 marks)

Human Resource Management Functions:

  1. Hiring and Recruiting:
    • One of the primary functions of the human resources department is to oversee hiring and recruiting within an organization. The department actively recruits, screens, interviews, and hires qualified candidates for open positions. The department administers skills assessment and personality tests to match candidates with the right job within the company. The human resources department also develops employee handbooks that explain company policies and procedures to new hires. Effective recruitment ensures that the organization has the right talent to execute its strategy.
  2. Training and Development:
    • The human resources department handles the training and development of staff within an organization. It creates training programs and conducts training for new hires and existing employees. The human resources department also works in conjunction with department managers and supervisors to determine the training needs of employees. They are responsible for contracts with training providers and monitoring training budgets. Continuous learning and development ensure that employees’ skills and knowledge remain aligned with the company’s strategic goals.
  3. Handling Compensation:
    • The human resources department is responsible for various aspects of employee compensation. The department typically handles employee payroll and ensures employees are paid accurately and on time, with the correct deductions made. Human resources departments also manage compensation programs that include pensions and other fringe benefits offered by the employer. Proper compensation management motivates employees to perform at their best, contributing to the achievement of organizational objectives.
  4. Employee Benefits:
    • The human resources department manages all aspects of employee benefits, including health and dental insurance, long-term care or disability programs, as well as employee assistance and wellness programs. The department keeps track of employee absences and job-protected leave, such as family medical leave. Human resources department representatives ensure employees receive the proper disclosures regarding benefit eligibility or if benefits are no longer available because of a layoff or termination. Comprehensive benefits packages can enhance employee satisfaction and retention, which is critical for maintaining a stable workforce aligned with organizational goals.
  5. Employee Relations:
    • The human resources department handles employee relations matters within an organization. Employee relations involve employee participation in different aspects of organizational activities. The department maintains the relationship between employees and management by promoting communication and fairness within the company. The department also handles disputes between employees and management, as well as disputes between the company and labor unions or employee rights organizations. Positive employee relations help create a motivated and committed workforce, which is essential for the successful implementation of corporate strategies.

Business organizations are established with all the key functional areas to work interactively for the achievement of their short and long-term objectives.

Required:

Explain FIVE (5) ways the production function coordinates its activities with the other functional areas to achieve these objectives.

Ways the Production Function Coordinates with Other Functional Areas:

  1. Production Strategy:
    The production department is responsible for developing the production strategy that will enable the organization to achieve its overall objectives. This involves collaborating with other departments to align production goals with the company’s strategic direction.
    (2 marks)
  2. Product Quantity:
    The production department works closely with the marketing department to provide the agreed quantity of products outlined in the marketing plan, ensuring that production meets the organization’s sales revenue targets.
    (2 marks)
  3. Product Quality:
    The production department collaborates with the quality control division to ensure that products conform to the quality standards established by both the company and external regulatory bodies, maintaining the integrity of the product in the market.
    (2 marks)
  4. Research and Development (R&D):
    The production department liaises with the R&D department to develop new products that can increase the company’s revenue and help the organization gain a competitive advantage over its rivals.
    (2 marks)
  5. Inventory Management:
    The production department constantly consults with the purchasing department to ensure that the necessary raw materials and inputs are available to meet the operational needs of the organization at minimal cost, supporting efficient production processes.
    (2 marks)

Seagull Ltd supplies mining equipment and devices to mining companies in Ghana. The company intends to achieve its objective of being the market leader in the industry by 2025. The company’s strategy of achieving this objective is based on motivating its employees with adherence to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and implementing a consultative leadership approach.

Required:
a) Explain FIVE (5) benefits the consultative leadership approach will contribute to the achievement of the company’s objectives. (10 marks)
b) Explain how the management of the company would apply Maslow’s theory to motivate the employees. Your explanation should include TWO (2) strategies at each level of the hierarchy. (10 marks)

a) Benefits of Consultative Leadership Approach:

  1. Acceptance of Decisions: The consultative leadership approach facilitates the acceptance of decisions made by top management, as employees are involved in the decision-making process. This inclusiveness leads to greater buy-in and commitment to the implementation of decisions.
  2. Quality of Decisions: The quality of decisions is enhanced as the consultative approach allows for the input of various employees who possess expertise and insights in their respective areas. This collective input leads to more informed and effective decisions.
  3. Reduced Conflict: The approach helps reduce conflicts within the organization, as employees feel that their opinions and concerns have been considered in the decision-making process. This fosters a more harmonious working environment.
  4. Improved Productivity: By involving employees in decision-making, the consultative approach can lead to increased motivation and job satisfaction, which in turn boosts productivity and helps the company achieve its operational goals.
  5. Enhanced Communication: The consultative leadership approach promotes open communication between management and employees, leading to a better flow of information and a clearer understanding of organizational objectives. This transparency helps align employees’ efforts with the company’s goals.
  6. Employee Development: Involving employees in decision-making processes provides them with opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge, preparing them for future leadership roles within the organization.
  7. Innovation and Creativity: The approach encourages employees to contribute new ideas and solutions, fostering an innovative culture that can give the company a competitive advantage in the market.
    (Any 5 points @ 2 marks each = 10 marks)

b) Application of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to Motivate Employees:

  1. Physiological Needs:
    • Adequate Wages and Salaries: The company can motivate employees by ensuring they are paid competitive wages that meet their basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.
    • Provision of Meals: Offering subsidized meals or food allowances at the workplace can help fulfill employees’ basic physiological needs.
  2. Safety Needs:
    • Health and Safety Measures: The company can provide a safe working environment by implementing strict health and safety protocols, offering protective gear, and ensuring regular safety training.
    • Job Security: Ensuring job stability and offering contracts that provide long-term employment security can help satisfy employees’ safety needs.
  3. Social Needs:
    • Team Building Activities: The company can foster a sense of belonging by organizing team-building events, social gatherings, and encouraging collaboration among employees.
    • Supportive Work Environment: Creating a positive work culture that promotes respect, inclusion, and support among colleagues can help fulfill employees’ social needs.
  4. Esteem Needs:
    • Recognition and Rewards: Providing recognition programs, awards, and promotions for outstanding performance can help employees feel valued and appreciated.
    • Opportunities for Advancement: Offering professional development programs, such as training and mentoring, can help employees achieve a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
  5. Self-Actualization Needs:
    • Challenging Work Assignments: The company can offer challenging projects that allow employees to utilize their full potential and creativity, helping them achieve personal growth and fulfillment.
    • Opportunities for Innovation: Encouraging employees to innovate and contribute new ideas can help them reach their self-actualization goals, as they see their contributions making a real impact.

Application of Strategies:
To motivate employees effectively, Seagull Ltd should implement strategies that address each level of Maslow’s hierarchy. By fulfilling employees’ basic physiological needs first, the company can then focus on higher-level needs, ultimately leading to a motivated, committed, and productive workforce.
(Any 2 strategies for each level of Maslow’s hierarchy @ 1 mark each = 10 marks)