Buchanan Journal Entry 13.1
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Pennsylvania State University, World Campus *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
405
Subject
English
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
3
Uploaded by JusticeFlagZebra9
ENG 405 Project Management for Professionals
Journal Entry 13.1 – Optimum Organizational Structures
Tylor Buchanan
Smeal College of Business November 19
th
, 2023
Situation Selected: Situation 3
What organization structure would you recommend for this project?
Response:
For designing and building a new smartphone, I recommend adopting a projectized organizational structure. This structure is ideal because it allows for dedicated teams focusing solely on the project, ensuring that all efforts are aligned towards the common goal of developing the smartphone. Each team, whether it be software and hardware design, procurement, manufacturing, test, or shipping, would operate under the project umbrella, with project managers coordinating their activities (Gido, et. Al., 2018). This structure facilitates clear
communication, quick decision-making, and a high degree of flexibility, which is crucial for a project involving state-of-the-art technologies and aggressive timelines.
What are the potential pitfalls of this structure?
Response:
The major pitfalls of a projectized structure include:
Resource Allocation Challenges: Competing for resources with other projects within the company could be a challenge.
Knowledge Silos: Given the focus on the project, there's a risk of developing knowledge silos where information is not shared beyond project boundaries.
Integration with Functional Areas: Integrating the project outcomes with existing functional areas of the company might be challenging after project completion.
How would you preclude encountering these pitfalls?
Response:
To address these pitfalls, I would:
Implement Cross-Functional Teams: Encourage collaboration between project teams and functional departments to facilitate knowledge sharing and integration.
Regular Stakeholder Engagement: Hold regular meetings with stakeholders from both the project and functional areas to ensure alignment and address any resource conflicts.
Post-Project Integration Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan for integrating the project's outcomes with the company’s existing functional areas, ensuring a smooth transition post-
project completion.
In conclusion, a projectized structure, with its focus on dedicated teams and project-centric management, is ideal for the fast-paced and innovative environment required for developing a new smartphone. By addressing potential pitfalls through strategic planning and cross-
functional collaboration, this project can successfully navigate the challenges and achieve its objectives, positioning the company as a leader in the smartphone market.
References
Gido, J., Clements, J. P., & Baker, R. D. (2018a). Successful Project Management
. Cengage Learning.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help