Read the Helen Demarco case . This situation may be new to you, or it may identify an all-too-familiar dilemma that you may have experienced in your personal and/or professional life. Some might argue that Helen’s actions were reasonable, and that she had no discernible options. Others will argue that she should have considered other courses of action. Regardless, investigating different perspectives can lead to passionate exchanges about what is right, what is correct, and what is realistically possible in organizations.
The Demarco case offers you an opportunity to examine your personal beliefs and assumptions about the functioning of organizations as well as their leadership. It can also help you put into perspective your personal theories about organizational change. As you consider this case from various lenses, respond to the following questions:
- Do you agree with Helen’s decision to recommend that the group conduct a study?
- What options did Helen have and which one would you have s selected?
- Which of the four frames（structural, human resource, political, and symbolic）, do you think apply most closely to the Helen Demarco case? For instance, is this an example of a structural problem with the company? Or does it reflect more on a problem with human resources? Or is it a problem with the organization’s culture?