Opportunities to improve Communication and Perceptions and MPC:
- Establish direct connects7: It would be a good idea for Bob & Mike to make special trips to have a first-hand understanding of the ground reality in Detroit and San Francisco. This would reduce the lack of communication connections due to the distributed nature of MPCs businesses and also the fact that Al has not been able to spend the necessary time at these locations. This will help Bob & Mike evaluate the real issues and the extent to which Al is aware and in-charge of the situation. They might as well find that Al has things under control and the regional managers report the regular status to Al and Al does provide the necessary guidance, albeit remotely
- Upward Communication: It is seen that a majority of the line functions in the organizations report into Al. Since Al is a very senior executive, the Board needs to know Al’s performance accurately8. Direct connections with regional offices should provide a clear picture on Al’s day to day effectiveness. It is highly recommended that Al’s loyalty to the company, his excellent track record and his willingness to work in midst of serious issues on the personal front should be communicated to the Board along with news that he just helped close a much-awaited $15MM deal in Detroit.
- Support Structures: The situation that MPC is facing with one of its senior executive is not new to an Organization; in fact this could be faced by anyone in the Organization. Bob should plan for an effective support for Al for the next 3 months. Joe Roderick could be given additional responsibilities to take stock of regional offices based on his prior experience. Bob & Mike can take up a portion of planning and decision making tasks to support Al. This would also ensure all critical information is known to Bob and can effective decisions or report accurate statuses