Case Study

Sun Microsystems

Situation/Need

As a result of significant changes in the computer hardware market, new product launches from competitors and internal cultural challenges, Sun was experiencing significant financial difficulties.

The MD of the UK region needed to involve senior managers in a significant business improvement initiative in order to kick-start a positive attitude and a series of practical measures that would improve the situation.

Approach/Solution

1:1 conversations with directors and other key leaders enabled us to design a two day workshop for all members of the extended leadership team (approx. 30 people).

Using a simple process and group creativity techniques we were able to help the team develop a series of recovery strategies along with plans to achieve specific short and medium term business targets.

Results

In the 12 months that followed a number of breakthroughs were made as a result of the implementation of the strategies and plans laid out during the workshop. In spite of continuing difficulties and a negative business climate, there was also an increased sense of teamwork and camaraderie in tackling the problems of poor business performance.