Discuss whether introducing Management by Objectives (MBO) is the most effective way for RW to solve its human resource problems.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2018). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [K] MBO involves negotiating and setting objectives/targets for all employees and managers so all know what is expected of them
2. [K] objectives could be manager led or consensual
3. [K] objectives to be SMART
4. [K] objectives should be in line with strategic overall aims
5. [K] Alternative method(s) for addressing worries
6. [App] Reference to list of Asif's bullet points
7. [App] high dissatisfaction rate (50% thinking of leaving)
8. [App] Asif as store manager, Kadeem as less involved with store employees
9. [An] employee involvement in setting objectives leads to increased ownership, motivation, commitment and performance
10. [An] BUT – can be time consuming and costly
11. [An] BUT – might lead to employees disclosing confidential strategic information
12. [An] BUT – agreed objectives might be too easy/difficult to achieve
13. [An] BUT – may lead to inflexible response to changing environment
14. [An] Other possible responses to issues may be put forward with reasons/implications including: increased training provision
15. [An] Other possible responses to issues may be put forward with reasons/implications including: discussion with store manager to improve his management skills (application)
16. [An] Other possible responses to issues may be put forward with reasons/implications including: more involvement with employees by Kadeem (application)
17. [An] Other possible responses to issues may be put forward with reasons/implications including: introduction of a bonus scheme
18. [Eval] Supported recommendation on (non) introduction of MBO
19. [Eval] Ranking MBO with alternatives as solution to problems
20. [Eval] Weighing up of benefits of MBO with disadvantages.