LASA 2 Implementing Leadership Techniques Creating An

LASA 2 Implementing Leadership Techniques Creating An

Design an executive brief detailing the strategies for team cohesion, the launch process, goal setting with timelines, evaluation methods, implementation procedures, and resistance management for launching three new academic programs at Success University.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Leadership and strategic planning are essential components in the successful launch of new academic programs, especially when involving diverse teams and stakeholders. Success University’s initiative to introduce three new programs—the Business Certificate in Leadership, an Associate of Science in Business Administration, and a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Leadership—requires a well-structured approach to team cohesion, program launch, goal setting, evaluation, and managing resistance. This paper provides a comprehensive executive brief outlining strategies for these aspects, ensuring an effective implementation aligned with organizational objectives.

Team Cohesion Plan

Creating a unified team is fundamental to the success of the program launches. I propose three strategies to foster cohesion:

  1. Clear Role Definition and Responsibilities: Establishing explicit roles and responsibilities for each team member—faculty, alumni, admissions staff, student services, and marketing—will clarify expectations and reduce overlaps. A responsibility assignment matrix (RACI chart) can facilitate this clarity, ensuring everyone understands their contributions (Katzenbach & Smith, 1993).
  2. Open Communication Channels: Implementing regular communication through weekly meetings, shared collaboration tools (such as Microsoft Teams or Slack), and progress reports encourages transparency and trust. Open dialogue minimizes misunderstandings and enhances collaboration (Edmondson, 1999).
  3. Team-Building Activities: Engaging the team in periodic team-building exercises, both virtual and face-to-face, promotes rapport and a sense of shared purpose. Activities focused on problem-solving and mutual support reinforce cohesion and motivation (Tuckman, 1965).

Launch Plan

The comprehensive launch process comprises at least six key steps:

  1. Stakeholder Engagement: Conduct initial meetings with all stakeholders to align expectations, address concerns, and gather input.
  2. Curriculum Development and Accreditation: Coordinate with faculty and accrediting bodies to finalize curriculum content and ensure compliance.
  3. Resource Allocation: Secure necessary resources, including faculty hiring, technological infrastructure, and marketing budgets.
  4. Marketing and Outreach: Develop targeted marketing campaigns to promote the programs to prospective students and industry partners.
  5. Admissions and Enrollment Process: Set up streamlined application processes and admission criteria aligned with program goals.
  6. Faculty and Staff Training: Prepare faculty and staff on new policies, curricula, and program delivery methods.

Goals and Timeline

Key objectives include enrolling the targeted number of students, successful program accreditation, and establishing a sustainable operational framework. The timeline spans over six months, with specific deliverables such as:

  • Month 1-2: Stakeholder meetings, curriculum finalization, resource planning.
  • Month 3-4: Marketing rollout, application process setup, faculty training.
  • Month 5: Finalize enrollment, finalize accreditation, commence program promotion.
  • Month 6: Program launch, student orientation, and feedback collection.

This phased approach enables continuous evaluation and adjustment, ensuring milestones are met effectively.

Evaluation and Monitoring

Monitoring team progress and individual contributions is pivotal for ongoing success. I propose weekly face-to-face or virtual meetings to review milestones, discuss challenges, and co-create solutions (Lencioni, 2002). Additionally, implementing status reports and performance dashboards will provide real-time metrics on enrollment numbers, marketing effectiveness, and administrative processes.

To support individual development, regular coaching sessions will be scheduled, allowing team members to address personal barriers and enhance skills. An appreciative inquiry approach can foster motivation and a growth mindset (Cooperrider & Whitney, 2005).

Implementation Plan

The implementation phase involves converting planning into action through clear role assignments during program rollout. Faculty will be responsible for curriculum delivery, while admissions staff will focus on student enrollment and onboarding. Marketing personnel will execute outreach campaigns, and student services will manage orientation and support.

Team functioning will be facilitated through project management tools like Gantt charts and task trackers, ensuring accountability. Leadership will foster an environment of shared responsibility, emphasizing clear communication, mutual support, and adaptability. Regular progress assessments will be conducted to address issues proactively (Northouse, 2018).

Change Management and Resistance Strategy

Anticipating stakeholder resistance—such as concerns over workload, adaptation to new policies, and change speed—is vital. A comprehensive change strategy encompasses:

  • Communication: Transparent messages explaining the benefits, addressing concerns, and providing avenues for feedback (Hiatt, 2006).
  • Participation: Involving stakeholders in planning fosters ownership and reduces resistance (Kotter & Schlesinger, 2008).
  • Training and Support: Offering training sessions and ongoing support mitigates anxiety related to learning new policies.
  • Incremental Implementation: Phasing changes and providing quick wins help stakeholders adjust comfortably (Lewin, 1951).

By applying this strategy, resistance can be managed constructively, facilitating smoother program implementation.

Conclusion

Launching new academic programs demands cohesive teamwork, strategic planning, and adaptive change management. The strategies outlined—focused on team cohesion, comprehensive launch steps, goal-oriented timelines, rigorous evaluation, effective implementation, and resistance mitigation—are essential for ensuring success. Through structured execution, transparent communication, and stakeholder engagement, Success University can effectively navigate the complexities of program launch, ultimately enriching its educational offerings and institutional reputation.

References

  • Cooperrider, D., & Whitney, D. (2005). Appreciative inquiry: A positive revolution in change. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
  • Edmondson, A. C. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350-383.
  • Hiatt, J. (2006). Change management: The people side of change. Prosci Learning Center Publications.
  • Katzenbach, J. R., & Smith, D. K. (1993). The wisdom of teams: Creating the high-performance organization. Harvard Business Review Press.
  • Kotter, J. P., & Schlesinger, L. A. (2008). Choosing strategies for change. Harvard Business Review, 86(7/8), 130-139.
  • Lencioni, P. (2002). The five dysfunctions of a team: A leadership fable. Jossey-Bass.
  • Lewin, K. (1951). Field theory in social science. Harper & Brothers.
  • Northouse, P. G. (2018). Leadership: Theory and Practice (8th ed.). Sage Publications.
  • Tuckman, B. W. (1965). Developmental sequence in small groups. Psychological Bulletin, 63(6), 384-399.

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