Running head: PROBLEM SOLUTION: GENEONE
Problem Solution: GeneOne
University of Phoenix
Transformational Leadership
Professor Joe Fears
January 21, 2008
Problem Solution: GeneOne
Organizational culture is the pattern of shared assumptions, values and beliefs considered to be the correct way of thinking about and acting on problems and opportunities facing the organization (McShane and Von Glinow). Gene One is a small organization that was started about eight years ago based upon the idea of Don Ruiz and several of his close friends and colleagues. Gene One’s initiative first and foremost is to make a contribution to society. In 1996, Gene One entered the biotech industry with groundbreaking gene technology that eradicated disease in tomatoes and potatoes (Gene One). Don and his leadership team have been able to contribute efficiently and effectively to their organizations culture and structure. In Chapter 14 the question is asked, “Does organizational culture affect corporate performance?” Herb Kelleher, the founder of Southwest Airlines, also believes that a company’s culture makes a difference in the company’s success: Culture is one of the most precious things a company has, so you must work harder on it than anything else (McShane and Von Glinow (2005)). An organizations structure is the division of labor as well as the patterns of coordination, communication, workflow and formal power that direct organizational activities. It also reflects the organization’s culture and power relationship (McShane and Von Glinow. Ch. 15). Gene One’s organization has been structured in a way that places individuals in departments that best fit their skills, knowledge and/or talent. McShane and Von Glinow indicate less time is wasted changing from one task to another and training cost are reduced because employees require fewer physical and mental skills to accomplish the assigned work goal. Gene One is preparing for an IPO, which will take a good...