Functional theory
The theory sees society as a complex interconnected system, independently functional but working together to ensure effectiveness and wholeness. From the text, the fact that Colorado Springs employees worked together helped them to be chosen as the benchmark for the largest restaurant chain McDonald’s. The employees and the employers are two different systems that are independently useful but have to work together to make sure that the company (in this case, the bigger system) works efficiently and appropriately. The functional theory is explained in this scenario by the art of proper selection for location. From a functionalist theory view, a good site creates harmony in the industry and leads to prosperity because it is functional. Dedication can be seen in Steve Bigari who loves and does his work with passion Colorado Springs continues operating as one whole system with minimal interference so that effectiveness in guaranteed according to the functional theory point of view (Shlosser, 2002).
Conflict theory
The conflict theory views the society as a system with different groups that are not equal to each other and constantly conflict and change. McDonald’s went to benchmark at Colorado Springs. The management at the Colorado Springs does things differently that prompted McDonald’s do benchmark at their company (Shlosser, 2002). There are two distinct groups, which are the employees and the employers. They are constantly in conflict with each other concerning issues like the labor unions, which aim at recruiting the employees to standardize wages and create channels for grievances among addressing other issues. The turnover rates at the franchise contribute and continue to feed this conflicted system. At Colorado Springs, there is harmony between the workers that is the reason behind their success and high turnover rate. Either there is a rise in employee turnover rates, the conflicts remain constant or increase as new employees come with new concerns and the unions approach the new staff afresh. It causes the cycle to continue repeatedly.
Reference
Erick Shlosser (2002), Fast Food Nation, Penguin Group, London.
