Organizational Leadership and Human Resources Flashcards

What is the primary characteristic of a matrix organizational structure?

Answer: Employees report to both a functional manager and a project manager simultaneously

A matrix structure creates dual reporting relationships where employees answer to both their functional department head and the project manager for assigned projects.

Which conflict resolution approach involves all parties working together to find a solution that fully satisfies all concerns?

Answer: Collaboration (Problem-solving)

Collaboration seeks a win-win solution by fully addressing all parties' concerns through open communication and creative problem-solving.

What does the term 'organizational culture' refer to in engineering management?

Answer: The shared values, beliefs, behaviors, and norms that characterize an organization

Organizational culture is the collective set of values, assumptions, and behaviors shared by members that defines 'how we do things here' and influences every aspect of the business.

Which human resource practice involves identifying high-potential employees and preparing them for leadership roles?

Answer: Succession planning

Succession planning is a proactive process of identifying and developing internal candidates to fill key leadership positions when they become vacant.

According to Tuckman's model of team development, what stage immediately precedes the 'Performing' stage?

Answer: Norming

Tuckman's stages are Forming, Storming, Norming, and Performing — teams must establish norms and cohesion (Norming) before achieving high performance.

In engineering organizations, what is the primary purpose of job enrichment?

Answer: Adding more meaningful, challenging, and responsible tasks to increase intrinsic motivation

Job enrichment increases job depth by adding autonomy, responsibility, and varied challenges to make work more meaningful and motivating for employees.