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Sunday 18 August 2013

POM Mid Term Test

Q.1 Discuss the concept of effectiveness with the case of 3 idiots crossing the river exercise.

Ans: The concept of effectiveness as put forth by Peter Drucker means "Doing the right thing" as opposed to the concept of efficiency which means "doing things right". Effectiveness involves choosing right goals. Effectiveness addresses following key points which are discussed in terms of the river crossing exercise simulated in the class-
1. Clear practices, policies, and decisions: It is one of the most important requirement as it aims to remove any ambiguities and ensures minimum conflicts in workplace. As in case of the river crossing, the number of steps were clearly defined as well as they were classified as risky, half risky and safe. This ensured informed decision making at each step of the exercise.
2. High Levels of organizational trust: Employees of an organization are the foundation members and hence highest level of trust is expected among them. For example, lack of trust in the river crossing exercise could lead to fatalities.
3. Using information technology effectively: Importance of simulation was discussed in the class with respect to the hazardous tasks. Here Information technology can be effectively employed.
4. An environment accepting of change and innovation: Innovations are always two steps ahead than improvements and hence we should aim to use innovative techniques to make all the 27 steps as safe eliminating risk factor altogether.
5. Synchronization: As it is said, management is a music and not noise, synchronization is as important for manager as it is for an Orchestra.Without proper synchronization the 3 idiots will never be able to cross the river safely.


Q.2 Show and compare the 'Productivity measurement' for TWO different work methods adopted (a) Two monks carrying water (b) Three monks carrying the water. Explain relevant Organization and Management issues related to this.

Ans: The efforts are more when 2 monks are carrying water as compared to the efforts put in by 3 monks to carry the equal amount of water. The efficiency is also more when the 3 monks are working together instead of 2 monks. Hence, the overall productivity is more in case of 3 monks carrying water than 2 monks carrying the water. 
But there several organization and management issues that creep up when 2 or more persons are working together. 
1. Load sharing: As seen in this story, two monks had an argument over distribution of load of a bucket. It was solved by using the scale to determine the midpoint of stick, so that load will be shared equally. The method that was used was a Participative Management.
2. Sharing Responsibility: When there were 3 monks, everyone thought that the other 2 should get the water and hence everyone was trying to avoid the work. But all of them worked together in case of emergency, when monastery was on fire. So, management of an organization should always look for keeping the employees on toes by providing them with challenges.

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