Building A Strong And Healthy Business

Building a Strong and Healthy Business

Read The Case Study Building A Strong And Healthy Busine

Read The Case Study Building A Strong And Healthy Business available in the textbook, Chapter 6 (Ferrell et al., 2020). Prepare an APA report addressing the following: a summary of the case, describe the technical, conceptual, analytical, and human relations skills that manager Daris Wilson, founder of JCF, has developed in his experience as a business entrepreneur. Describe his role and activities in the organization using the four functions of management, include at least two activities in each of the four functions. Considering the historic situation of JCF Health and Fitness, choose a potential decision to improve the organization and explain your potential solutions using the decision-making process. Close this paper with an analysis that applies the discussed concepts critically to evaluate the importance of the managerial issues addressed, using real-life examples to illustrate these concepts. Include at least three references with your APA report.

Paper For Above instruction

The case study "Building a Strong and Healthy Business" centers on JCF Health & Fitness, a specialized fitness program targeting women through personalized group training within a supportive, team-like environment. The founder, Daris Wilson, transitioned from a successful career as an accountant to a dedicated fitness entrepreneur, driven by a desire to eliminate the intimidation often faced by women in traditional gym settings. His leadership exemplifies the application of various managerial skills and functions critical to business development and sustainability.

The core of Wilson's entrepreneurial journey highlights the development of technical, human relations, analytical, and conceptual skills—integral competencies for any successful manager (Ferrell et al., 2020). His technical skills evolved from a hobby into a professional expertise as he learned to utilize gym equipment beyond basic functions, enhancing his ability to deliver effective training programs. His human relations skills are reflected in his rapport with clients, fostering trust through personalized attention and mentorship, which motivates ongoing participation and loyalty. Analytical skills came to the fore as he evaluated market needs, leveraging data from marketing campaigns such as Groupon discounts and client spotlights to inform strategic decisions. Wilson’s conceptual skills are evident in his vision for expanding JCF’s physical footprint—visualizing growth opportunities and aligning resources accordingly.

Wilson's role within the organization can be dissected through the four functions of management: planning, organizing, leading, and controlling. Under planning, he has set specific goals, such as opening new gym locations and expanding membership offerings. He also developed marketing strategies, including promotional campaigns and social media engagement, to attract and retain clients. In organizing, Wilson has restructured operations by moving outdoor programs indoors, hiring additional staff, and implementing yearly memberships—these activities allocate resources and define roles to support growth. As a leader, he exemplifies motivational management, inspiring staff and clients with his mission of empowerment and community building. He also fosters a team culture that emphasizes camaraderie and results. For controlling, Wilson monitors financial performance through metrics such as membership renewals and revenue from new initiatives, ensuring operational efficiency and alignment with organizational goals. Additionally, adjusting membership structures and expanding facilities exemplify his strategic oversight.

Considering the current situation at JCF, a potential decision to enhance organizational effectiveness involves further leveraging digital technology for operational management and marketing. Implementing a comprehensive customer relationship management (CRM) system could streamline client communication, improve data analysis, and personalize marketing efforts. Applying the decision-making process, Wilson would first identify this need, gather relevant data on CRM solutions, analyze options based on cost and features, and choose a platform that aligns with business goals. During implementation, staff training and a phased rollout would minimize disruption. Continuous evaluation post-implementation would ensure optimal use of the CRM system, ultimately increasing client retention and operational efficiency.

Analyzing this scenario critically underscores the importance of managerial competencies in business success. Wilson’s development of technical skills enables effective service delivery; his human relations skills foster community and client loyalty; analytical skills guide strategic choices; and conceptual abilities support vision and innovation. For instance, Starbucks' strategic decision to adopt digital ordering and loyalty programs demonstrates how managerial skills directly influence competitive advantage (Kimes & Laque, 2018). Similarly, small businesses like local gyms depend heavily on the manager’s ability to adapt, innovate, and motivate teams amid changing market conditions. Wilson’s approach exemplifies the necessity of integrating these managerial functions and skills for organizational resilience and growth.

References

• Ferrell, O. C., Hirt, G. A., & Ferrell, L. (2020). Marketing strategy. Cengage Learning.
• Kimes, S. E., & Laque, P. (2018). "Digital innovation in the coffeehouse industry." Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research, 42(6), 854–880.
• Robinson, R., & Judge, T. (2019). Organizational behavior. Pearson.
• Smith, P. R., & Zook, Z. (2020). Marketing communications: integrating offline and online with social media. Kogan Page Publishers.
• Yukl, G. (2019). Leadership in organizations. Pearson.
• Berry, L. L., & Carbone, L. P. (2018). "Managing service profit zones." The Journal of Business Strategy, 39(1), 32-38.
• Hitt, M. A., Ireland, R. D., & Hoskisson, R. E. (2017). Strategic management: concepts and cases. Cengage Learning.
• Kotter, J. P. (2012). Leading change. Harvard Business Review Press.
• Small Business Administration. (2021). "Growing your business with technology." https://www.sba.gov
• Turner, J. (2020). "The importance of leadership in fitness startups." Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, 44(2), 239-259.