Chapter 4
Case Study – Listo Systems: The Challenge of a Growing Organization
• Listo Systems’ VISION statement is: “To be recognized as a leader in supplying
quality graphic design products and services to our customers and to be respected
by our clients and staff.”
• Listo Systems’ MISSION statement is: “We strive to develop superior graphic
design products and services for our users through state-of-the-art technology,
innovation, teamwork, and leadership.”
Following their early success and growth, Listo hired a number of new managers and
employees. In response to the expansion of staff, Listo reorganized by adding layers of
Using the above scenario, consider Organizational Level 1: Key Players (Stakeholders)
and Business Ideas (Purpose). Which Leadership Challenge response is most appropriate:
Establishing, Refining, or Monitoring?
Using the theories discussed in Chapters 1-4, explain why you chose that response.
Refining – Argyris: Describes inherent difficulties in bureaucratic and hierarchical
Using the above scenario, consider Organizational Level 2: Entity (Culture) and Strategy
(Mission). Which Leadership Challenge response is most appropriate: Defining, Shaping,
or Publicizing?
Using the theories discussed in Chapters 1-4, explain why you chose that response.
Shaping – Hawthorne Studies: Employees will perform well if they believe that they are
Using the above scenario, consider Organizational Level 3: Departments (Units) and Key
Results (Success Factors). Which Leadership Challenge response is most appropriate:
Involving, Facilitating, or Communicating?
Using the theories discussed in Chapters 1-4, explain why you chose that response.
Involving – Homans/Informal Work Groups: Individuals who work together on projects
Using the above scenario, consider Organizational Level 4: Teams (Groups) and Goals
(Objectives). Which Leadership Challenge response is most appropriate: Focusing,
Unifying, or Connecting?
Using the theories discussed in Chapters 1-4, explain why you chose that response.
Connecting – Vroom/Expectancy Theory: Needs drive behaviors, and if effortful
Using the above scenario, consider Organizational Level 5: Individuals (People) and
Tasks (Jobs). Which Leadership Challenge response is most appropriate: Enabling,
Engaging, or Empowering?
Using the theories discussed in Chapters 1-4, explain why you chose that response.
Engaging – McGregor/Theory Y: People are naturally inclined to strive toward success