MGT 550 Module Two Assignment Guidelines And Rubric

Mgt 550 Module Two Assignment Guidelines And Rubric Overview

Using the Communications Template, identify two overall issues present in the final project case that can be addressed through internal and external communications. For each issue, note the red flags that contribute to the issue and list those factors in the first column of the template. For each factor, identify potential communications to address that component of the issue, the audience that would need to be reached, and the communication's objective.

From this template, select one of the two issues to focus on in your final project. Develop the ideas you've noted for Milestone One, using the Communications Planning resource to help complete the template. For each overall issue identified, complete the fields: I. Contributing factors to the issue, II. Communication messages and channels required, III. Audience (internal, external, or both), IV. Communication objectives.

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The assignment requires a comprehensive analysis of a final project case to identify critical issues that can be addressed through strategic communication. Using a structured template, students are expected to pinpoint two major issues within the case, analyze the red flags and contributing factors associated with each, and outline appropriate communication strategies for each factor. The task emphasizes understanding the importance of targeted messaging, selecting effective communication channels, and identifying key audiences for internal and external stakeholders.

The first step involves a thorough examination of the case study—specifically, "Research in Motion: Sincerely, a RIM Employee" as provided in the Harvard Business Review coursepack—to extract two overarching issues. These issues should be identifiable through observable signs (“red flags”) such as stakeholder concerns, internal inefficiencies, or external pressures. Once identified, students are asked to analyze the root causes contributing to these issues, including organizational behaviors, market dynamics, or systemic flaws.

The core of the assignment is developing tailored communication plans aimed at addressing each issue’s contributing factors. For each factor, students should specify the communication messages that need to be conveyed, the channels best suited for delivery (such as internal memos, press releases, social media, or direct meetings), and the target audience—be it internal employees, external partners, or the general public. The objectives of these communications should clearly articulate what each message aims to achieve, whether it's clarifying misconceptions, motivating change, or informing policy decisions.

Subsequently, students will select one of the two issues for deep focus in their final project. They will expand upon the initial ideas by developing detailed communication strategies and plans aligned with organizational goals and stakeholder needs. This process entails synthesizing the analysis to propose tangible communication solutions that could mitigate the issue or facilitate organizational improvement.

Overall, the assignment underscores the importance of strategic communication planning in managing organizational crises, improving internal coordination, and shaping external perceptions. Properly executed, these communication strategies can help organizations address complex issues holistically, restoring stakeholder trust and promoting sustainable change.

Paper For Above instruction

The case study "Research in Motion," which examines internal challenges faced by the organization, provides a fertile ground for applying strategic communication principles. In analyzing this case, two overarching issues emerge that are amenable to resolution through targeted communication strategies: employee morale and public perception of product innovation. Internal and external communications can be leveraged to address these issues effectively, aligning organizational narratives with stakeholder expectations and corporate objectives.

The first issue, employee morale, is often impacted by internal communication gaps, leadership changes, or uncertainty about organizational direction. Red flags contributing to this include decreased employee engagement, absenteeism, and negative feedback in employee surveys. These indicators suggest a disconnect between management's strategic direction and employee understanding or buy-in. To address this, internal communications should focus on transparent messaging about organizational changes, recognition of employee contributions, and channels for feedback. For instance, town hall meetings, internal newsletters, and leadership Q&A sessions serve as effective channels. The objective is to rebuild trust, motivate employees, and foster a culture of openness and participation.

The second issue concerns the public perception of innovation and product development. External stakeholders, including customers and investors, may perceive the company as stagnating or unable to compete in a competitive marketplace. Red flags include declining sales figures, negative media coverage, and social media criticism. To combat this, external communications must emphasize the company's ongoing innovation efforts, success stories, and commitments to customer satisfaction. Press releases, corporate social responsibility campaigns, and media interviews can serve as channels. The goal is to restore confidence, generate positive media coverage, and reinforce the company's value proposition.

Focusing on the employee morale issue for the final project, the communication plan should encompass clear, consistent messages that articulate organizational vision and values. Channels such as regular internal updates, leadership town halls, and anonymous feedback platforms would be appropriate. Objectives include improving engagement, reducing misinformation, and aligning employee perceptions with organizational goals. Effective messaging should emphasize transparency, appreciation, and a shared future vision.

In conclusion, strategic internal and external communication plans are essential in addressing complex organizational issues like those faced by Research in Motion. By identifying red flags and contributing factors, and by deploying targeted messages through suitable channels, organizations can foster a more resilient and aligned stakeholder environment. The successful implementation of these communication strategies can lead to enhanced organizational performance, improved morale, and sustained public confidence.

References

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• Harvard Business Review. (n.d.). Research in Motion: Sincerely, a RIM Employee. Coursepack.
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