...Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing Riordan Manufacturing (Riordan) is a global plastics company owned by a Fortune 1000 enterprise, Riordan Industries. It produces plastic beverage containers in Albany, Georgia, custom plastic parts in Pontiac, Michigan and plastic fan parts in Hangzhou, China. Riordan's Research and Development is conducted in San Jose, California, corporate headquarters. Declining sales and profits has forced Riordan to change its sales processes and adopt a customer-relationship management system (CRM). A team approach was implemented with the expectation that sales will improve. Each sales team consists of a sales person, product engineer, and customer service representative (Apollo Group, Inc., 2004). Riordan's managers have noticed that there is a decline in morale and work ethic. An annual employee survey indicated that employees are dissatisfied with the current reward system as well as benefits and overall satisfaction. The company is concerned that dissatisfied employees will find employment elsewhere. Riordan's President does not feel comfortable with changing the compensation system and the company has allocated $50,000 to hire an independent human resource (HR) consultant to analysis the issues in the employee survey. The HR consultant presented a proposal to redesign Riordan Manufacturing’s compensation and reward system which suggested a salary survey of the company's positions be conducted to determine current market positioning and...
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...Running head: PROBLEM SOLUTION: RIORDAN MANUFACTURING Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing University of Phoenix Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing The objective of this paper is to exhibit an organized approach using the 9-step Problem-Solving Approach to provide Riordan Manufacturing with legitimate solutions to challenges presented. In addition, the paper identifies opportunities and issues, defines the problem, and develops a set of alternative solutions. In conclusion, the paper recommends the paramount alternatives to implement in order for Riordan Manufacturing to be the global industry leader in plastics production. Situation Analysis Issue and Opportunity Identification Several challenges Riordan Manufacturing must be overcome in order to accomplish the company's organizational goals. One challenge is overcoming employee job dissatisfaction, which declined as part of Riordan's restructuring process. Another challenge is increasing employee retention, which declined due to less than optimal working conditions and minimal personal opportunities to develop and advance. Finally, Riordan Manufacturing needs to overhaul the current flawed reward system into an effective rewards system that aligns the organization's strategy with compensation and incentive packages. Moreover is employee development and training. Riordan has done a small amount of promoting or developing their employees in past years and a key strategic advantage for organizations...
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...Running head: PROBLEM SOLUTION: RIORDAN MANUFACTURING Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing University of Phoenix MMPBL/530 November 14, 2011 Donnetta Webb Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing The Riordan scenario shows the issue with the company personnel and organizational leadership. Riordan Manufacturing is a global plastics producer employing 550 people with projected annual earnings of $46 million. The company is owned by Riordan Industries, a Fortune 1000 enterprise with revenues in excess of $1 billion. Riordans major customers are automotive parts manufactures, aircraft manufacturers, the Department of Defense, beverage makers and bottlers, and appliance manufacturers. The current reward system at Riordan is not performance and leans on other factors that may be a hindrance to some individuals who may believe that they are deserving, thus resulting in a decline in morale and work ethic because of the morale system. Riordan faces conflict of interest between top management in various areas causing a gap between members of top management and also employees. The CEO knows that something must happen and is considering his options that may include the overhauling of a new Human Resources (HR) system that will provide motivation, new reward system, or a change in pay for employees (Scenario 2: Riordan manufacturing). The employees are potentially looking for jobs elsewhere, and the leadership is guessing at solutions. The company decides...
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...Riordan Problem Solution Running head: PROBLEM SOLUTION: RIORDAN MANUFACTURING Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing University of Phoenix Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing The objective of this paper is to exhibit an organized approach using the 9-step Problem-Solving Approach to provide Riordan Manufacturing with legitimate solutions to challenges presented. In addition, the paper identifies opportunities and issues, defines the problem, and develops a set of alternative solutions. In conclusion, the paper recommends the paramount alternatives to implement in order for Riordan Manufacturing to be the global industry leader in plastics production. Situation Analysis Issue and Opportunity Identification Several challenges Riordan Manufacturing must be overcome in order to accomplish the company's organizational goals. One challenge is overcoming employee job dissatisfaction, which declined as part of Riordan's restructuring process. Another challenge is increasing employee retention, which declined due to less than optimal working conditions and minimal personal opportunities to develop and advance. Finally, Riordan Manufacturing needs to overhaul the current flawed reward system into an effective rewards system that aligns the organization's strategy with compensation and incentive packages. Moreover is employee development and training. Riordan has done a small amount of promoting or developing their employees in past years and a key strategic advantage...
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...Dr. Joseph Hamel University of Phoenix June 13, 2011 Abstract Insert Abstract Text Here. Business Research Methods I Introduction Riordan Manufacturing is an industry leading plastic manufacture with facilities located in both North America and China. Riordan has struggled to meet their effectiveness standards for multiple categories and they are looking to implement one of three quality improvement methods to improve process efficiency. If Riordan is to maintain an industry leader, changes must occur in processes across the board in relation to accuracy, availability, quality, timeliness, and cost. However, the first effectiveness measure to be looked at should be the receiving of raw materials from suppliers since every other process thereafter deals with inventory. In addition, the formulation of a solution involves certain steps be taken. Firstly, a process-driven research question should be formulated defining the initial problem. Secondly, a methodology such as Six Sigma, ISO, or Baldridge must be chosen to improve the process. Thirdly, a research design should be created to define any and all variables involved in the solution, and fourthly a sample design should be identified for the collection of data. Process & Methodology In any process improvement method, the first step is to define the problem by asking a process-driven research question. Riordan’s process-driven question is, how does the receipt of material shipment timeliness affect...
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...Gap Analysis: Riordan Manufacturing Riordan Manufacturing is faced with some issues, challenges and opportunities to increase their sales and profitability, improve employee satisfaction, and improve their customer relationships in an effort to help them remain competitive in the marketplace. In this research an analysis will be conducted to evaluate the situations that face Riordan Manufacturing. This analysis will identify the issues and opportunities, explore the stakeholders’ perspectives, and review the problem and the end state goals. Once the analysis is complete the leadership team at Riordan Manufacturing will be able to put together a problem solution to begin to tackle the issues faced by the company. Situation Analysis Issue and Opportunity Identification “Riordan Manufacturing is a global plastics producer employing 550 people with a projected annual earnings of 46 $million” (University of Phoenix. n.d., p 1). The company is owned by Riordan Industries a Fortune 1000 enterprise with revenues over $1 billion (University of Phoenix. n.d., p 1). Over the past two years Riordan Manufacturing has experienced declining sales and uneven profits (University of Phoenix. n.d.). This change forced Riordan Manufacturing to make some strategic changes in the way they manufacture and market products and its sales processes. The strategic changes prompted Riordan Manufacturing to adopt a customer-relationship management system (CRM) which allowed customers to be serviced...
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...Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing Riordan Manufacturing is a successful organization looking to improve overall performance and position the company for future growth. The organization was initially founded in 1991 and has seen significant growth since its inception. Today Riordan Manufacturing is a global competitor in the plastics market with over 550 employees. Projected earnings exceed $46 million with a heavy focus in plastic beverage bottles, custom plastic parts, and plastic fan parts. The following review will analyze various issues impacting the organizations operations. Identified issues will be used to determine business opportunities while connecting improvements to key human resource management concepts. Key stakeholders in the organization will be identified along with the establishment of strategic end-state goals that will help guide improvements at Riordan Manufacturing. Major gaps in Riordan Manufacturing’s process will be analyzed using a standard gap analysis approach with accompanied alternative solutions that have a long-term focus. An optimal solution will be identified along with an implementation plan with meaningful end-state goals that support the vision of the organization. Situation Analysis Issue and Opportunity Identification Riordan Manufacturing has developed various processes and procedures to manage the business. The organization maintains a heavy focus on research and development with a strong sales force to help distribute the...
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...Riordan Manufacturing Business System Proposal Paul Belanger, Aaron Ledger, Dacia Faulk, Ian Westerfield, Jennifer Gallaway University of Phoenix Introduction Being the industry leader in polymer materials and per our mission statement, Riordan Manufacturing must remain in step with industry trends. In order to effectively attain this objective, we must acclimatize, embrace, and take advantage of new and innovative technologies. In addition to identifying existing systems employed within the company that are in need of upgrades, the remainder of this paper will also address new systems as well as sub-systems needed and present a brief summary of why these systems would be advantageous to the future of Riordan Manufacturing. Finance and Accounting Overview Riordan manufacturing employs nine basic finance and accounting subsystems globally and three additional subsystems at the San Jose, California corporate headquarters. The atmosphere of interoperability between each of Riordan’s offices (California, Georgia, Michigan, and China) is at best hostile. At present, each operating entity has its own finance and accounting system resulting in a number of inefficiencies due to company-wide systems incompatibility, a lot of which stems from the Michigan and Georgia acquisition. To better establish potential interoperability between existing subsystems, it is first necessary to define the current subsystems of each Riordan office, existing software solutions, and how these...
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...n Individual –Riordan Problem Solution Paper and Defense Using the Problem Solution Template, develop a 3,000-4,500-word paper in which you propose a solution to help Riordan develop cross cultural management tactics that meet strategic goals. Remember that your solution needs to focus on the cross cultural management concepts covered in the course (see the mind map in Week Four on your rEsourceSM course page). Be sure to incorporate appropriate citations from your readings and research. NOTE: The word count does not include the tables. Be prepared to propose your solution to your peers and defend your ideas. The instructor will determine the method that this defense will take. Please Note: Please remember that this is a study guide and to use it as such. You still need to put your assignment in your own words. You can summarize, and paraphrase the information in this guide to fit your needs but I would advise that you do not turn it in word for word as your own work or you risk plagiarism. Good luck with your studies! Problem Solution: Riordan In today’s global competitive business landscape, the successful management of a global workforce is crucial to the success of the entire organization. Success in this arena is contingent on many factors some of which are awareness of and adjustments to cultural dimensions, correctly applied management styles, and effective job design. Awareness of and adjustments to cultural dimensions is an important aspect of...
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...Running head: PROBLEM SOLUTION: RIORDAN Problem Solution: Riordan Problem Solution: Riordan Riordan Manufacturing is a multinational corporation led by a competent and dedicated senior management team. Riordan has experienced success with an operation opened in China in the past year and has made a decision to expand by adding a second production site. This new venture presents cross-cultural challenges Riordan has not before faced. Riordan must solve its problem so it can realize its goal of offering more components around the globe. To do this, a nine-step problem-solving model will be applied starting with identifying of issues and opportunities and ending with the optimal solution, implementation of the solution, and an evaluation of the results. Situation Analysis Issue and Opportunity Identification Riordan Manufacturing has an existing facility in China that has been so successful in the past year, the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Michael Riordan, has decided to look at the potential of expanding the facility to supply additional components globally. The key players represent a wealth of experience in the chemical and plastics industry, international operations, and working within the China province of Hangzhou. However, the management team has less knowledge of cross-cultural issues that could affect the production and delivery schedules for the new facility (University of Phoenix, 2011). Riordan has not considered the differences in cultural values in...
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...Running head: PROBLEM SOLUTION: RIORDAN MANUFACTURING Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing Khwaja Shaik University of Phoenix Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing Riordan Manufacturing is a global plastics producer employing 550 people with projected annual earnings of $46 million. The company is wholly owned by Riordan Industries, a Fortune 1000 enterprise with revenues in excess of $1 billion. Production is divided among three plants: plastic beverage containers in Albany, Georgia; custom plastic parts in Pontiac, Michigan; and plastic fan parts in Hangzhou, China. Research and Development is conducted at corporate headquarters in San Jose, California. Riordan's major customers are automotive parts manufacturers, aircraft manufacturers, the Department of Defense, beverage makers and bottlers, and appliance manufacturers. This research paper will discuss the issues being faced by Riordan Manufacturing and provides solution based on various motivation, rewards and performance concepts Situation Analysis Issue and Opportunity Identification – Total reward system The current reward system is barely based on performance, instead recognizing cost-of-living increases, seniority and position. Faced with declining morale and work ethic, Riordan managers have been pressuring the CEO to "do something" about the rewards system. Riordan’s employees comprise three major demographic groups. Baby boomers make up the bulk of the managerial and about...
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...UNIX, Linux, and Windows Server Critique Abstract The following sections in this paper focus on analyzing operating systems for Riordan Manufacturing Inc. that specializes in plastic molding and design. Team B concentrated on five main areas of UNIX, Linux, and Windows Server. The five areas include Security, Administration, Networking, Performance, and Programmability. The team explains the existing systems, followed by comparing advantages and disadvantages of each operating system. The comparisons provide insight for Riordan’s IT specialist and administration considering which system to implement. Interesting topics that relate to security weaknesses, and advantages that UNIX® and Linux® compare against the operating giant, Microsoft Windows Server®. Security At the present time, Riordan Manufacturing’s network configurations consist of a heterogeneous UNIX and Windows environment. UNIX has been around for more than 40 years and is known for its’ robust power and scalability. According to the Open Group, “Security, which is often seen as a weakness for UNIX-based systems, is ensured using dedicated communication lines and secure communications protocols, along with strict authentication procedures” (para. 42). This means UNIX, just like Windows, requires configurations to make it a more secure system. Setting up file permissions, user access controls, as well as shutting down network services not currently active are just a few of the ways that help close the gap...
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...UNIX, Linux, and Windows Server Critique POS/420 Name Professor Date University of Phoenix Abstract The following sections in this paper focus on analyzing operating systems for Riordan Manufacturing Inc. that specializes in plastic molding and design. Team B concentrated on five main areas of UNIX, Linux, and Windows Server. The five areas include Security, Administration, Networking, Performance, and Programmability. The team explains the existing systems, followed by comparing advantages and disadvantages of each operating system. The comparisons provide insight for Riordan’s IT specialist and administration considering which system to implement. Interesting topics that relate to security weaknesses, and advantages that UNIX® and Linux® compare against the operating giant, Microsoft Windows Server®. Security At the present time, Riordan Manufacturing’s network configurations consist of a heterogeneous UNIX and Windows environment. UNIX has been around for more than 40 years and is known for its’ robust power and scalability. According to the Open Group, “Security, which is often seen as a weakness for UNIX-based systems, is ensured using dedicated communication lines and secure communications protocols, along with strict authentication procedures” (para. 42). This means UNIX, just like Windows, requires configurations to make it a more secure system. Setting up file permissions, user access controls, as well as shutting down network services not currently active...
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...Riordan Manufacturing-Business Systems Review Student Name BSA/310 Riordan Manufacturing-Business Systems Review Mission Riordan Manufacturing is the industry leader in the field of plastic injection molding. Innovative plastic designs are Riordan's specialty used in the manufacture of medical stents, heart valves, fans, plastic bottles, and other custom parts. One of the fastest growing organizations in its field, Riordan Manufacturing is a for profit organization with annual earnings of up to $46 million. Full potential of growth and profit generation for Riordan Manufacturing is not being achieved. The focus for the company's future and their mission statement is "achieving and maintaining reasonable profitability to assure that the financial and human capital is available for sustained growth. By assuring that our employees are well informed and properly supported, we will provide a climate focused on the long term viability of our company. And we will strive to be a solution provider for our customers and not be a part of our customer's challenges." There is room for improvement in all successful companies, including Riordan Manufacturing. To reach its full potential of generating profit, and to grow as an organization, there is a need for improvements to all business systems in all departments. Description Finance and Accounting All financial transactions for the company are the responsibility of the Financial and Accounting Department of Riordan Manufacturing...
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...Problem Solution: Riordan Manufacturing Employee motivation is an issue that does not discriminate (UoP, 2008). “Motivation is the willingness to exert effort in a particular way” (Dreher & Dougherty, 2001, p.28). Two theories can be reviewed when examining motivation. The first is expectancy theory. Expectancy theory holds that people are motivated to behave in ways that produce desired combinations of expected outcomes (Kreitner & Kinicki, 2004). Vroom’s expectancy theory is a mathematical model that looks at motivation. Employee motivation is influenced by expectation. If I get a raise at the end of the year for all my hard work I will work harder next year. If I work hard and don’t get a raise then my effort level will decrease. Porter & Lawler’s extension expectancy model identified people’s valences and expectancies and how effort connected to performance. “Valence refers to the positive or negative value people place on outcomes’ (Kreitner & Kinicki, 2004, p. 300). This theory showed that job satisfaction was directly linked with how employees perceived their reward. Employees will alter their mind-sets only if they see the point of the change and agree with it – at least enough to give it a try (Lawson & Price, 2003). The second theory is equity theory. “Equity theory is a model that explains how people strive for fairness and justice in social exchanges or give-and-take relationships” (Kreitner & Kinicki, 2004, p. 290). Adam’s equity theory of motivation looks at inputs...
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