BUS102 Management Principles Semester 1, 2022 Assessment Det

BUS102 MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES Semester 1 2022 Assessment Details

This assessment has two parts: a video or PPT presentation and a written summary.

Part A: Video Presentation or PowerPoint Presentation (20%, 3 minutes individual presentation). You will analyze a managerial practice discussed in class, such as environmental responsibility initiatives. Collaborate with two classmates, who will act as an assistant manager and an employee, respectively. Record a short video presentation discussing the meeting agenda, management views, and decisions, incorporating research evidence and presenting solutions to issues identified. Each student should speak for three minutes. Upload the video to YouTube and submit the link by Week 11. The presentation will be assessed on content quality, communication effectiveness, and use of tools.

Part B: Written Summary (Individual): Write a 2000-word, double-spaced, 12pt font summary based on the presentation and core findings, reflecting relevant course topics and readings. Submit the document in MS Word format via MyCIHE by the deadline.

Paper For Above instruction

Understanding and effectively implementing management principles are essential for organizational success in today's dynamic business environment. This paper explores the critical aspects of management practices focusing on social responsibility and ethical decision-making, using the example of environmental sustainability initiatives such as reducing plastic usage. It analyzes how such managerial decisions impact organizational reputation, stakeholder engagement, and competitive advantage, supported by recent research and industry examples.

Effective management practices are integral to fostering organizational growth, especially when addressing social and environmental responsibilities. In recent years, organizations have recognized that integrating sustainability into their core strategies is not only a moral imperative but also a competitive necessity. For instance, a company adopting plastic reduction policies may demonstrate its commitment to environmental stewardship, which can enhance brand loyalty and customer trust (Porter & Kramer, 2011). Such initiatives often require managerial decision-making that balances economic costs with societal benefits, illustrating the importance of ethical considerations in strategic planning (Crane, Matten, & Spence, 2014).

Analyzing a real-world organization engaging in sustainability practices reveals how managerial practices influence stakeholder perceptions and organizational outcomes. For example, Unilever's Sustainable Living Plan emphasizes reducing environmental impact through plastic waste minimization, aligning with consumer expectations and regulatory requirements (Unilever, 2020). The managerial choices involved in implementing these initiatives include resource allocation, stakeholder communication, and monitoring progress toward sustainability goals. Such decisions reflect a commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), which has been linked to improved financial performance and customer loyalty (Bhattacharya, Korschun, & Sen, 2009).

However, managerial practices toward social responsibility are complex and often face challenges such as resistance to change, higher costs, and stakeholder skepticism. Overcoming these challenges involves transparent communication, active engagement, and strategic alignment of sustainability goals with organizational values. For example, Starbucks' approach to reducing single-use plastics involved employee training, customer engagement campaigns, and collaboration with suppliers, demonstrating a comprehensive management strategy that fosters cultural change within the organization (Starbucks Corporation, 2019).

Ethical decision-making plays a crucial role in ensuring that sustainability initiatives are genuinely impactful rather than superficial. Managers must navigate ethical dilemmas, such as balancing shareholder interests with societal benefits, and make decisions rooted in integrity and accountability. Moreover, embedding sustainability into organizational culture requires leadership commitment, consistent messaging, and performance measurement (Maak & Pless, 2006). Effective management practices promote a climate of continuous improvement, innovation, and stakeholder trust.

The strategic importance of social responsibility extends beyond environmental concerns to include social equity, fair labor practices, and community engagement. Managers adopting holistic approaches can foster long-term resilience and adaptability in turbulent markets. For example, Patagonia’s environmental activism and transparent supply chain practices reflect a management philosophy centered on authenticity and stakeholder value (Patagonia, 2021). Such practices not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also serve as a source of competitive differentiation.

In conclusion, managerial practices related to social responsibility and ethics profoundly influence organizational reputation, stakeholder relationships, and competitive positioning. Organizations that effectively integrate sustainability into their strategic frameworks demonstrate proactive leadership, ethical integrity, and a commitment to long-term value creation. Future managers must continually develop their understanding of ethical management principles and stakeholder engagement to navigate the complexities of responsible decision-making in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

References

  • Bhattacharya, C. B., Korschun, D., & Sen, S. (2009). Strengthening Stakeholder–Company Relationships Through Mutually Beneficial Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives. Journal of Business Ethics, 85(2), 257-272.
  • Crane, A., Matten, D., & Spence, L. J. (2014). Corporate Social Responsibility: Readings and Cases in a Global Context. Routledge.
  • Maak, T., & Pless, N. M. (2006). Responsible leadership in a stakeholder society. Journal of Business Ethics, 66(1), 99-115.
  • Porter, M. E., & Kramer, M. R. (2011). Creating Shared Value. Harvard Business Review, 89(1/2), 62-77.
  • Starbucks Corporation. (2019). 2019 Global Environmental & Social Impact Report.
  • Unilever. (2020). Unilever Sustainable Living Report 2020.
  • Patagonia. (2021). Environmental and Social Responsibility. Retrieved from https://www.patagonia.com/
  • American Express. (2017). Customer Experience and Loyalty Survey. Retrieved from https://www.americanexpress.com/
  • Gartner. (2015). Customer Experience Trends in Business. Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/
  • Zendesk. (2020). The Impact of Customer Reviews on Buying Decisions. Zendesk Research.

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