Harvard Case - Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure
"Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure" Harvard business case study is written by David Loree, Fernando Olivera, Cam Buchan. It deals with the challenges in the field of Human Resource Management. The case study is 12 page(s) long and it was first published on : Feb 13, 2023
At Fern Fort University, we recommend Arcane implement a phased approach to transitioning from a functional structure to a squad-based organization. This approach will focus on building a strong foundation of talent management, leadership development, and change management to ensure a smooth and successful transformation.
2. Background
Arcane, a rapidly growing software company, faces challenges in adapting to its increasing size and complexity. The current functional structure, while effective in the early stages, is hindering collaboration, innovation, and speed to market. The CEO, John, recognizes the need for change and proposes a squad structure, inspired by successful companies like Spotify. However, implementing this change requires careful consideration of the existing organizational culture, employee concerns, and potential risks.
The main protagonists in this case study are John, the CEO, and the key leaders within Arcane, who are tasked with navigating this organizational transformation.
3. Analysis of the Case Study
Arcane's situation can be analyzed through the lens of organizational structure and design, organizational behavior, and change management.
Organizational Structure and Design: The current functional structure creates silos, limiting cross-functional collaboration and hindering agility. The squad structure, with its cross-functional teams, promises to address these issues, fostering innovation and faster decision-making.
Organizational Behavior: The shift to a squad structure will require significant changes in employee behavior. Leadership styles will need to adapt, emphasizing collaboration and empowerment. Employee motivation will be crucial, requiring clear communication about the benefits of the new structure and providing opportunities for career advancement within the squads.
Change Management: Implementing such a significant organizational change requires a structured approach. Arcane needs to address employee concerns, manage resistance, and provide adequate employee training to ensure a smooth transition.
Framework: To analyze the effectiveness of the squad structure, we can utilize the McKinsey 7S Framework, which considers seven key elements of organizational effectiveness:
- Structure: The proposed squad structure aligns with Arcane's growth trajectory and need for increased agility.
- Strategy: The squad structure supports Arcane's strategic goals of innovation and faster product development.
- Systems: New systems need to be implemented to support the squad structure, including project management tools, communication platforms, and performance measurement systems.
- Shared Values: Arcane needs to clearly communicate the values that underpin the squad structure, emphasizing collaboration, ownership, and customer focus.
- Skills: Employees will need to develop new skills, such as collaboration, problem-solving, and self-management, to thrive in the squad environment.
- Staff: Talent management strategies need to be implemented to attract, retain, and develop the right talent for the squads.
- Style: Leadership styles need to evolve to be more collaborative, empowering, and agile.
4. Recommendations
Arcane should implement a phased approach to transitioning to a squad structure:
Phase 1: Planning and Preparation (3-6 months)
- Strategic Planning: Define the objectives, scope, and timeline for the transition. Conduct a thorough analysis of the existing structure, identify key stakeholders, and develop a communication plan.
- Talent Management: Conduct a skills gap analysis to identify training needs and develop a plan for employee training and leadership development.
- Organizational Development: Develop a clear framework for the squad structure, including team composition, roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.
- Change Management: Communicate the rationale for the change, address employee concerns, and develop strategies to manage resistance.
Phase 2: Implementation (6-12 months)
- Squad Formation: Form initial squads based on projects, product lines, or customer segments.
- Leadership Development: Train existing leaders on leadership styles that foster collaboration and empowerment within the squads.
- Employee Training: Provide employee training on agile methodologies, communication skills, and collaborative problem-solving.
- Performance Management: Develop new performance metrics aligned with the squad structure and implement a system for tracking progress.
Phase 3: Optimization and Evaluation (Ongoing)
- Continuous Improvement: Regularly review squad performance, identify areas for improvement, and adjust the structure and processes as needed.
- Employee Engagement: Conduct regular employee surveys to gauge employee satisfaction, identify challenges, and ensure the squad structure is meeting its objectives.
- Succession Planning: Develop a plan for identifying and developing future leaders within the squad structure.
5. Basis of Recommendations
These recommendations are based on the following considerations:
- Core competencies and consistency with mission: The squad structure aligns with Arcane's mission to deliver innovative software solutions and fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.
- External customers and internal clients: The squad structure aims to improve communication and responsiveness to both external customers and internal stakeholders.
- Competitors: The squad structure is a common approach among successful tech companies, allowing Arcane to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving software industry.
- Attractiveness ' quantitative measures: While quantifying the benefits of the squad structure is challenging, it is expected to lead to increased productivity, faster product development cycles, and improved employee morale, ultimately contributing to higher profitability.
6. Conclusion
Arcane's transition to a squad structure presents a significant opportunity to improve organizational agility, foster innovation, and enhance employee engagement. By implementing a phased approach with a focus on talent management, leadership development, and change management, Arcane can successfully navigate this transformation and unlock its full potential.
7. Discussion
Alternatives not selected:
- Maintaining the current functional structure: This would fail to address the challenges of collaboration, innovation, and agility, ultimately hindering Arcane's growth.
- Rapid implementation of the squad structure: This could lead to chaos and resistance, undermining the success of the transition.
Risks and key assumptions:
- Resistance to change: Employees may resist the new structure, requiring effective communication and addressing concerns.
- Lack of leadership support: Strong leadership commitment is crucial for the success of the transition.
- Inadequate training and development: Employees need adequate training and support to thrive in the new structure.
8. Next Steps
- Form a change management team: This team will be responsible for overseeing the transition process.
- Develop a detailed implementation plan: Outline the steps, timelines, and resources needed for each phase of the transition.
- Communicate the change: Clearly communicate the rationale for the change, the benefits for employees, and the steps involved.
- Pilot the squad structure: Implement the squad structure on a smaller scale to test and refine the approach before full-scale implementation.
- Monitor progress and make adjustments: Regularly review the progress of the transition, identify challenges, and make adjustments as needed.
By following these steps, Arcane can ensure a successful transition to a squad structure, unlocking a new era of growth and innovation.
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR Human Resource Management case study - Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure
- Aw Ltd Managing Change Case Study Solution
- Blue Orb Company Transition Case Study Solution
- Royal Bank Canada Transforming Managers Case Study Solution
- Organization Founder Clientele Transformation Vgkk Case Study Solution
- Arck Systems Case Study Solution
- Reengineering Lecroy Corporation Move Componentbased Systems Case Study Solution
- Etypes Case Study Solution
- Transformation Ing Agile Case Study Solution
- Perils Pitfalls Leading Change Young Managers Turnaround Journey Case Study Solution
- Building Networked Organization Restructuring Department Mwh Case Study Solution
- Organizing Performance Four Vignettes Case Study Solution
- Ing Agile Organization Disruptive Environment Case Study Solution
Case Description
In November 2019, digital marketing firm Arcane was six months into the conversion of its London, Ontario, headquarters into an organization of "agile" squads (small, self-managed teams)-a radical departure from the discipline-based silos that had served the agency since its beginning in 2011. Chief executive officer Lindsay Schneider and chief operating officer David Bunce, the architects of the change, were preparing an update for Arcane's Ownership Group the following week on the status of the squad structure rollout. Schneider and Bunce were tasked with reviewing the introduction of the squad structure and assessing the success of its implementation.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Write my custom case study solution for Harvard HBR case - Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR Human Resource Management case study - Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure
Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure FAQ
What are the qualifications of the writers handling the "Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure" case study?
Our writers hold advanced degrees in their respective fields, including MBAs and PhDs from top universities. They have extensive experience in writing and analyzing complex case studies such as " Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure ", ensuring high-quality, academically rigorous solutions.
How do you ensure confidentiality and security in handling client information?
We prioritize confidentiality by using secure data encryption, access controls, and strict privacy policies. Apart from an email, we don't collect any information from the client. So there is almost zero risk of breach at our end. Our financial transactions are done by Paypal on their website so all your information is very secure.
What is Fern Fort Univeristy's process for quality control and proofreading in case study solutions?
The Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure case study solution undergoes a rigorous quality control process, including multiple rounds of proofreading and editing by experts. We ensure that the content is accurate, well-structured, and free from errors before delivery.
Where can I find free case studies solution for Harvard HBR Strategy Case Studies?
At Fern Fort University provides free case studies solutions for a variety of Harvard HBR case studies. The free solutions are written to build "Wikipedia of case studies on internet". Custom solution services are written based on specific requirements. If free solution helps you with your task then feel free to donate a cup of coffee.
I’m looking for Harvard Business Case Studies Solution for Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure. Where can I get it?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure" at Fern Fort University.
Can I Buy Case Study Solution for Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure & Seek Case Study Help at Fern Fort University?
Yes, you can order your custom case study solution for the Harvard business case - "Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure" at Fern Fort University. You can get a comprehensive solution tailored to your requirements.
Can I hire someone only to analyze my Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure solution? I have written it, and I want an expert to go through it.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Pay an expert to write my HBR study solution for the case study - Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure
Where can I find a case analysis for Harvard Business School or HBR Cases?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure" at Fern Fort University.
Which are some of the all-time best Harvard Review Case Studies?
Some of our all time favorite case studies are -
Can I Pay Someone To Solve My Case Study - "Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure"?
Yes, you can pay experts at Fern Fort University to write a custom case study solution that meets all your professional and academic needs.
Do I have to upload case material for the case study Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure to buy a custom case study solution?
We recommend to upload your case study because Harvard HBR case studies are updated regularly. So for custom solutions it helps to refer to the same document. The uploading of specific case materials for Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure ensures that the custom solution is aligned precisely with your needs. This helps our experts to deliver the most accurate, latest, and relevant solution.
What is a Case Research Method? How can it be applied to the Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure case study?
The Case Research Method involves in-depth analysis of a situation, identifying key issues, and proposing strategic solutions. For "Changing the Landscape at Arcane: Squad Structure" case study, this method would be applied by examining the case’s context, challenges, and opportunities to provide a robust solution that aligns with academic rigor.
"I’m Seeking Help with Case Studies,” How can Fern Fort University help me with my case study assignments?
Fern Fort University offers comprehensive case study solutions, including writing, analysis, and consulting services. Whether you need help with strategy formulation, problem-solving, or academic compliance, their experts are equipped to assist with your assignments.
Achieve academic excellence with Fern Fort University! 🌟 We offer custom essays, term papers, and Harvard HBR business case studies solutions crafted by top-tier experts. Experience tailored solutions, uncompromised quality, and timely delivery. Elevate your academic performance with our trusted and confidential services. Visit Fern Fort University today! #AcademicSuccess #CustomEssays #MBA #CaseStudies
How do you handle tight deadlines for case study solutions?
We are adept at managing tight deadlines by allocating sufficient resources and prioritizing urgent projects. Our team works efficiently without compromising quality, ensuring that even last-minute requests are delivered on time
What if I need revisions or edits after receiving the case study solution?
We offer free revisions to ensure complete client satisfaction. If any adjustments are needed, our team will work closely with you to refine the solution until it meets your expectations.
How do you ensure that the case study solution is plagiarism-free?
All our case study solutions are crafted from scratch and thoroughly checked using advanced plagiarism detection software. We guarantee 100% originality in every solution delivered
How do you handle references and citations in the case study solutions?
We follow strict academic standards for references and citations, ensuring that all sources are properly credited according to the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).