Case Study
Best Buy. . .Best Job

1. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of Best Buy’s different employee programs using Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory, reinforcement theory, and expectancy theory. Students will have a variety of responses here. They should focus on two advantages and disadvantages for each of these three motivational theories. Students may tend to see more advantages, given the type of culture and management style at Best Buy. Remind students that “motivational programs” and “individual needs” are specific to individuals. This question provides an excellent opportunity to discuss the importance of managerial flexibility.

2. Log onto Best Buy’s Career Center on the Internet at [http://careers.bestbuy.com]. Click on two job titles listed there and assess these jobs according to the job characteristics model. If your classroom has Internet capabilities, you may want to access this site with your students during class. First, go to Best Buy’s Career Center at [http://careers.bestbuy.com]; next, click on the “Corporate” link. Students will select different jobs in response to this question in order to view a typical workday in the life of individuals who hold one of the jobs. Regardless of the jobs selected, students should list an element from the job characteristics model and follow that format for their analysis.

3. Design an employee recognition program that might fit in with Best Buy’s managerial philosophy.
To be effective, the program must be consistent with the culture of Best Buy and its new customer-centricity; therefore, recognition must be based on criteria that concern customer satisfaction and profitability. The recognition would most likely be in the form of rewards that are tailored to the needs and wants of individual employees, since one of Best Buy’s most prominent slogans is “At Best Buy, People Are the