Organizational Behavior and Design

3 units

Taking the perspective of organizational leaders, we will address some of the most vexing organizational challenges. These include how you can bring out the best in people, compelling them to go above and beyond the call of duty to get the job done; considering ways to systematically avoid biases when making strategic decisions; designing a structure that enables strategy execution; creating a strategically relevant culture that aligns employees’ interests with organizational objectives and promotes innovation; determining how to lead teams of diverse professionals; and wrestling with how to make difficult decisions from a position of personal and professional integrity. We will focus on the processes necessary to organize, motivate, and lead people engaged in collective activities and develop concepts and strategies that will help you to become a more effective leader. To accomplish these goals I have selected readings, cases, exercises, and videos to stimulate discussion and illustrate the conceptual and applied aspects of individual, group, and organizational behavior. Some of these materials focus on situations specific to India and organizations operating in the Indian market; others represent global wisdom and best practices. Throughout, though, the focus will be on making the materials and topics relevant to you and your career.