Introduction
The case under discussion, "Custom Chips", is about a manager's inability to work effectively under organizational constraints and, how these can in turn lead to conflicts, effect productivity and lower employee satisfaction.
Problems & Issues
The issues & problems highlighted in the case relate to both the Product Engineering Manager, Frank Questin and to the company. These issues/problems have been classified below in relationship to the concerned parties.
Manager
? Lack of proper manufacturing documentation which has lead to delays in production, increase in inter-departmental conflict, shifting of the production department's focus and employee dissatisfaction. This has also shifted the production department's focus and they are more involved in solving day-to-day tasks rather than focusing on their primary objectives.
? Frank Questin's involvement in day-to-day tasks has increased to a level where he is unable to focus on the core issues. His job has decreased to solving day-to-day manufacturing and design issues, and facilitating co-ordination between different departments.
? He is also facing lack of support from higher management both in the matter of allocation of resources and inter-departmental conflict resolution.
? There is also a shortage of staff which has increased the load on the current employees. This is leading to a decrease in employee satisfaction as in the case of Sharon.
Company
In my opinion, the problems being faced by the Manager, Frank Questin, basically stem from the problems being faced by the company as a whole. These are:
? There is lack of communication and co-ordination between departments. T ...