Case 3.1: Sustaining Cultural Values

Purpose:
The purpose of this case is to learn how to create and sustain cultural values.

Situation:
You've entered the CEO's orchid-filled office and notice a randomly stacked set of books on storytelling such as Story Factor by Annette Simons, Managing by Storying Around by Armstrong and Squirrel Inc. The CEO of this 500 employee printing firm explains that he has become "enamored" with the idea of managing through storytelling and points to the stack of books. He notes with frustration that he devotes hours to creating timetables, schedules, goals, and policies. He also acknowledges that when he comes face-to-face with employees he will often decide to alter his plans or policies because of their concerns. Indeed, some employees have secretly called him a "girly-man" even though they recognize his extraordinary abilities to work with big-name clients and consistently provide a good return to shareholders. He wants you to come up with a list of actionable ideas to transform his company from one driven by policies and schedules to one inspired by stories and a commitment to customers.

Objectives:

1. Develop a critique (strengths & weaknesses) of the existing managerial philosophy.
2. Create an alternative story-based approach outlining a strategy and related tactics.
3. Provide a critique of the story-based approach (strengths & weaknesses).
4. Suggest an implementation schedule based on sound communication principles.