Organizational Assessments Case Example

The Project

• An assessment was conducted for a large management & administrative organization.

The Problem

• Overall performance had declined. Previously achieved performance standards were no longer being met.
• Morale among employees was low. The executive leader had received complaints from several longtime employees characterizing the work environment as hostile and unproductive.
• The executive leader was extremely concerned about climate, productivity and employee retention; and was uncertain how to improve the situation.

The Process

• Confidential interviews were held with each leadership team member to gain perspective on workplace climate, and organizational strengths and challenges.
• A reporting of themes from the interviews was provided to the leadership, and several strategy sessions were conducted to identify the best approach for further assessing workplace climate and evaluating business processes.
• In consideration of the organization’s unique history and culture, a customized approach was designed that involved the leadership team in the organizational climate assessment and business process evaluation. The executive leader conducted ten breakfast meetings with the goals of listening to employee concerns, gathering improvement strategies and expressing commitment to creating a positive work environment. Alliance-building meetings were held with key clients and union representatives to understand their needs and concerns.
• The consulting team met biweekly with the leadership team to synthesize data and advise on assessment methodologies and implementation strategies.

The Results

• A code of conduct was created, communicated and enforced throughout the organization.
• Cost effective employee appreciation initiatives were implemented.
• A reorganization created five new key positions and more clearly distributed responsibilities.
• New benchmarks were created and implemented based on customer needs and industry standards.
• A post consultation assessment showed significant improvement in workplace climate and product reliability.