Publications
Publications
- October 1991 (Revised June 1992)
- HBS Case Collection
Nigel Andrews and General Electric Plastics (A)
Abstract
Describes some critical challenges involved in creating employee empowerment. In the context of General Electric's efforts to debureaucratise the company, employees were encouraged to become more "self-confident". This effort, called "Workout," was introduced all over the company. At one plant site, GE Silicone, an empowered steering committee helped to organize and lead problem-solving teams. However, one team decision was in conflict with a management decision and created a conflict in authority. Can be used to identify some of the natural ambiguities and tensions related to empowerment.
Keywords
Organizational Change and Adaptation; Change Management; Organizational Culture; Employees; Manufacturing Industry; United States
Citation
Jick, Todd D. "Nigel Andrews and General Electric Plastics (A)." Harvard Business School Case 492-020, October 1991. (Revised June 1992.)