MNG3702
ASSIGNMENT 2 (SEMESTER 2)
DUE 15 September 2025
QUESTION 1
1.1 There are various mechanisms that organisations can use, in combination, to become a
learning organisation. Apply any FIVE of these mechanisms to the Michelin company
throughout its history of publishing the Michelin guide. In your answer, you need to identify the
mechanism and then apply it to the company.
ANSWER:
Five mechanisms of a learning organisation applied to Michelin:
1. Systematic Problem Solving
This involves using data and analysis to solve problems effectively. Michelin demonstrated this
when it identified inefficiencies in its pyramidal structure, which caused wasted materials, lower
productivity, and poor safety records. By analysing the issues, management systematically
redesigned processes to create a flat, lean structure (Daft, Benson & Henry, 2020).
2. Experimentation with New Approaches
Organisations encourage innovation and trial-and-error methods. Michelin experimented with
new business ventures, such as publishing the Michelin Guide, which began as a promotional
tool for tires but evolved into a global authority on fine dining. This demonstrates
experimentation with strategies beyond core operations (El Cielo, 2024).
3. Learning from Past Experience
Reflecting on past successes and failures allows organisations to improve. Michelin learned
from its initial free distribution of the Michelin Guide in 1900, later introducing a charge in 1920
when it realised that people value what they pay for. This adaptation was based on past
experience (Michelin, Britannica, 2024).
ASSIGNMENT 2 (SEMESTER 2)
DUE 15 September 2025
QUESTION 1
1.1 There are various mechanisms that organisations can use, in combination, to become a
learning organisation. Apply any FIVE of these mechanisms to the Michelin company
throughout its history of publishing the Michelin guide. In your answer, you need to identify the
mechanism and then apply it to the company.
ANSWER:
Five mechanisms of a learning organisation applied to Michelin:
1. Systematic Problem Solving
This involves using data and analysis to solve problems effectively. Michelin demonstrated this
when it identified inefficiencies in its pyramidal structure, which caused wasted materials, lower
productivity, and poor safety records. By analysing the issues, management systematically
redesigned processes to create a flat, lean structure (Daft, Benson & Henry, 2020).
2. Experimentation with New Approaches
Organisations encourage innovation and trial-and-error methods. Michelin experimented with
new business ventures, such as publishing the Michelin Guide, which began as a promotional
tool for tires but evolved into a global authority on fine dining. This demonstrates
experimentation with strategies beyond core operations (El Cielo, 2024).
3. Learning from Past Experience
Reflecting on past successes and failures allows organisations to improve. Michelin learned
from its initial free distribution of the Michelin Guide in 1900, later introducing a charge in 1920
when it realised that people value what they pay for. This adaptation was based on past
experience (Michelin, Britannica, 2024).
