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Good Sport Organization

Running head: GOOD SPORT ORGANIZATION

Good Sport Organization

University of Phoenix
MBA 520 Transformational Leadership

Good Sport Organization

In this paper we will review the following points: first, we analyze the relationship between organizational structure and culture at Good Sport and determine what organizational structure is in place at Good Sport. Next, we assess the influence of organizational structure on power and politics at Good Sport and examine the power structures and politics observed at Good Sport. Then we develop feasible, specific strategies to manage resistance to change at Good Sport. Finally, we can assess the dynamics of leadership styles and change at Good Sport in order to help determine which leadership style could be the most effective at Good Sport.
Company Background
Good Sport is a fitness equipment manufacturer based in Coral Springs, Florida. (Management Foundations, 2007). Good Sport was founded 15 years ago by ex-basketball star Jason Poole who is now Chairman of the Board. Marvin Wallace is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and has propelled Good Sport forward in the last four years. Marvin’s investment leadership in improving performance levels in sales, production, and the research and development (R&D) teams has yielded very positive results and is spawning expansion in several southeastern states. Also on Jason’s executive management staff are Tamara Watkins, Vice President, R&D who has been with Good Sport for more than 10 years and Eartha Simpson, Vice President, Operations who has been with Good Sport for more than 12 years.

Organizational Structure
The organizational structure in place at Good Sport is a functional structure. A functional structure organizes employees around specific knowledge or other resources. (McShane & Von Glinow, 2005, p. 456) Marvin Wallace is at the top of the hierarchy and the departments are formed around leaders of specific disciplines such as Tamara Watkin’s research and...