8-2 Benchmark Study-Skunk Works

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Southern New Hampshire University *

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580

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Business

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Jul 1, 2024

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docx

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5

Uploaded by BrigadierWaterNightingale42

Benchmark Study: Skunk Works 8-2 Benchmark Study: Skunk Works Ameka S. Cheatham Innovation & Strategy for High-Performance Organizations MBA-580 Southern New Hampshire University April 21, 2024 1
Benchmark Study: Skunk Works Comparative Analysis: Organizational Structure and Innovation Culture between the Course Scenario Organization and Skunk Works Introduction: This report aims to compare the organizational structure and innovation culture of the course scenario organization, a leading U.S. producer of luxury and mass-market automobiles and trucks, with Skunk Works, the renowned innovation team at Lockheed. By identifying the similarities and differences between these entities, we can gain insights into improving our organization's ability to support innovation. Organizational Structure: The course scenario organization likely operates with a hierarchical structure, comprising various departments and levels of management. Decision-making processes may involve multiple layers of approval, which can slow down innovation and limit agility. In contrast, Skunk Works adopts a flatter, more decentralized structure that fosters autonomy, rapid decision- making, and cross-functional collaboration. This structure allows for streamlined communication, reducing bureaucracy, and promoting innovation. Implications:  The hierarchical structure of the course scenario organization may stifle innovation due to slow decision-making and limited autonomy. Adopting a flatter structure like Skunk Works can 2
Benchmark Study: Skunk Works enhance innovation by encouraging employees to take ownership of their projects and facilitating a seamless exchange of ideas across departments. Shared Vision: The course scenario organization may have a vision focused on maintaining its position in the luxury and mass-market automobile industry. While this can provide stability, it may also limit the organization's willingness to take risks and explore disruptive innovations. On the other hand, Skunk Works has a clear and ambitious vision of developing advanced technologies and groundbreaking solutions, often with military applications. Implications:  A shared vision that emphasizes breakthrough innovation, like that of Skunk Works, can inspire employees to think creatively and pursue ambitious projects. The course scenario organization should foster a culture that encourages risk-taking and supports long-term visions for innovative products and services. Creative Climate: The creative climate within the course scenario organization may vary across departments and teams. In some areas, employees may feel comfortable sharing ideas and experimenting, while in others, a fear of failure might prevail. Skunk Works is known for its highly creative and open environment, where team members are encouraged to think outside the box and challenge conventional thinking. 3
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