Introduction
There were several instances when group members had different views regarding various decisions, during our group discussion. Divergent opinions by members did not stop the group from finishing its objectives. Opinions which were supported by the majority in the group were adopted as collective decisions. Group members did not antagonize each other and they ensured that all decisions were made through consensus.
Improvements in Production
The first decision which members had to deliberate on was the issue of operations and production. Some members favored improvements in the firm’s internal operations to boost the quality of products released into the market. All members agreed that the firm needed to institute operational excellence to make it firm more competitive in the market.
However, some members felt the best way to institute operational excellence was by improving quality standards in production. However, some members had different opinions regarding this issue. They felt that cordial relations between the firm’s employees and its clients would improve its reputation in the market, thereby making existing clients loyal.
Later, everyo member agreed that good customer relations together with improved quality standards will enable the firm attain operational excellence. Some members felt that the firm’s research and development function needed to be improved.
They argued that a strong research and development department will make the firm have a competitive edge in the market. This is because, the firm will be able to innovate internal processes to improve the quality of its products. Some members felt that all departments need internal quality systems.
Relationship with Suppliers
In the third decision members had to decide the best way to engage with suppliers. Some members felt that an exclusive contract with suppliers was beneficial for the firm. Other members thought that an exclusive contract would limit the firm’s options in case a supplier failed to bring crucial merchandise for production. Many members agreed that the firm needs a flexible contract to enable sourcing of products from other suppliers if a supplier fails to deliver merchandise in time.
This would ensure that crucial processes in the organization are not jeopardized if a supplier fails to commit to terms outlined in the agreement. This approach will help the firm to reduce risks related to failure by suppliers to deliver merchandise on time. This will also ensure that crucial production processes in the firm are not interrupted. Some members felt that the firm needs to improve its technical systems to make its operations more efficient.
Internal Technical Functions
Many members argued that crucial technical functions in the firm need to be outsourced to external technicians. However, some members felt that it was necessary to hire new technicians to replace the current team of technicians who are less skilled. Afterwards, all members agreed that current technicians need additional training to make them more competent. Members agreed that this approach would be beneficial to the firm in the long term.
The time allocated to the R&D team caused some differences in opinion. Some members felt that the R&D team needs to be given 15% of normal working hours to work on their own projects. However, some members felt that 10% of normal working hours would be enough for the R&D team. Many members agreed that if the R&D team was given 15% of normal hours, it would be more creative. All members felt that the firm needs to give a 10% discount to customers to make them more loyal.