Wal-Mart and Dell: A Match You Can
1. Why was Michael Dell the ideal person to change the corporate culture to become more competitive?
Competition has been the order of the day in many industries and companies have been forced to develop strategies of survival. Failure to do this in most instances may result in the dropping of the market share and the consequent reduction of profitability of any company. This situation is depicted in this scenario where Dell has lost its market share to Hewlett-Placard in PC and computer-related products. To salvage the situation, Michael Dell, the founder of the company becomes the perfect person to deal with the issue because of a number of reasons. First, Michael Dell has been in the industry for some time and is aware of the strategies that are feasible to the company. The experience that Michael has will also be beneficial in determining the strategies that are cost-effective to the company. As the owner of the company, it would be wise for Michael to steer the corporate change. Any obstacles or mistakes will be easily understood by the founder. This would minimize any incidences of the blame game in case serious mistakes are made. This makes therefore, makes Michael Dell to complete the process.
2. Why does changing the marketing and operations of a company require a new organizational culture
The change in marketing and operations of a company in most instances require a new organizational culture because of a number of reasons. First, the new strategic plan results in changes in the company’s mission, vision and objectives. In this case, employees are expected to adapt to the working environment. This alters the culture of the organization in question. The change in the operations of a company also alters the roles played by employees. Employees may be required to work under new terms and conditions of service. The manager on the other hand may design a structure that would enhance communication with the subordinates. This therefore results in a new organizational culture altogether.
3. How will the information gained from retail partners such Wal-Mart and Costco change the corporate culture at Dell?
Retailers like Wal-Mart and Costco play a critical role in ensuring that the goods of a particular manufacturer are adequately sold. From the information, we realize that Dell has to change its approach on supply chain and facilitate the use of retail outlets. Additionally, it is crucial for the company to establish a less risky relationship with retailers and this would act in favor of the company through the stocking of goods. The information also shows that the company should change its approach in the way it advertises its goods. It is apparently clear that the company would be in the dark if this partnership with retailers did not exist.
