SOCI110 Case for Module 4 - ACME & OMEGA -
THE PARADOXICAL TWINS
Daft 7e pp. 158-160.
Note: this well known case is substantively related to several modules,
including Module 4 (external environment) and Module 8 (bureaucracy).
This semester (Fall 2001) we discuss the case on 25 Oct 2001 in relation
to Module 8 instead of 13 Sep 2001 in relation to Module 4 as originally
scheduled.
Instructions
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Form groups of 4 to 6 students each.
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Individually, read the case on pages 158-160 in the text; this will take
most people less than 15 minutes.
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Using one discussion sheet write the name of each group member in the list
above; return that sheet at the end of class.
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In your group discuss the questions that follow.
Discussion Questions
1. Compare Acme and Omega along the Mechanistic
vs. Organic dimension. What clues do you use to assess the location
of each organization along that dimension? (See Exhibit 4.6 p. 144
in Daft 7e.)
2. Which organization was more effective
at developing the prototype and meeting the deadline? Why?
3. Which organization was more effective
at getting the whole production contract? Why?
4. What are the characteristics of the
environments in which Acme, on one hand, and Omega, on the other, are expected
to be most effective?
5. In relation to issues pertaining to Module 8 on Bureaucracy,
consider the following points:
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Which of Acme and Omega is the most bureaucractic?
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How do the outcomes for Acme and Omega fit with Arthur Stinchcombe's ideas
about the relative advantages of bureaucratic versus craft administration?
Last modified 24 Oct 2001