Your response posts' goal is to extend discussions already taking place or pose new possibilities or ideas not previously voiced. Your goal should be to motivate the group discussion and present a creative approach to the topic. Do not merely agree or disagree, repeating what a classmate stated or what you have already stated. Explain the 'why or how' with supporting evidence and concepts from the course material. Include in-text citations and associated references within a reference list.

ANELYSSA CUEVAS posted Jun 27, 2023, 8:24 PM

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1. Pandemic: Major Effects on Planning for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company

The COVID-19 pandemic will have significant effects on the planning function of Smithfield Custom Furniture Company. According to Lumen Learning's Principles of Management, planning involves setting goals, identifying actions to achieve those goals, and developing strategies to address potential challenges. The pandemic will disrupt the company's supply chain, as there may be restrictions on the movement of goods and delays in shipping. This will require the company to reassess its production and inventory plans. Additionally, the pandemic may lead to a decline in consumer demand and changes in consumer behavior. The company will need to adjust its sales forecasts and marketing strategies to adapt to these changes (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

1A: Pandemic: Most Significant Planning Action for Company

The most significant planning action for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company during the pandemic would be to develop a flexible and responsive production and inventory management plan. The company should closely monitor the supply chain, identify alternative suppliers if necessary, and maintain adequate inventory levels to mitigate the risk of disruptions. It should also conduct regular market analysis to understand changing consumer demands and adjust production accordingly. Additionally, the company should plan for contingencies by developing alternative marketing strategies, exploring new distribution channels, and leveraging digital platforms for online sales (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

1. Pandemic: Major Effects on Organizing for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company

The COVID-19 pandemic will significantly affect the organizing function of Smithfield Custom Furniture Company. Organizing involves structuring resources and activities to achieve organizational goals. With the need for social distancing and remote work arrangements, the company's organizational structure may need to be adjusted. Communication channels and technology infrastructure must be enhanced to facilitate collaboration among employees working remotely. Hiring and retaining skilled workers may become challenging, and the company may need to revise its recruitment and selection strategies. Training programs should be adapted to equip employees with the necessary skills for remote work and ensure compliance with health and safety guidelines (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

2A: Pandemic: Most Significant Organizing Action for Company

The most significant organizing action for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company during the pandemic would be to establish a strong virtual work environment and enhance communication and collaboration platforms. The company should invest in secure and reliable remote work tools, such as video conferencing and project management software, to enable effective communication and coordination among employees. It should also revise its organizational structure to support remote work arrangements, decentralize decision-making processes, and empower employees to make timely and informed decisions. Additionally, the company should prioritize employee well-being by providing support programs, fostering a culture of work-life balance, and ensuring that health and safety guidelines are followed (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

1. Pandemic: Major Effects on Leading for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company

The COVID-19 pandemic will have significant effects on the leading function of Smithfield Custom Furniture Company. Leading involves inspiring and influencing employees to achieve organizational goals. During the pandemic, leaders must address the emotional and psychological impact on employees. Effective communication is crucial for providing guidance, addressing concerns, and fostering a sense of unity. Leaders should adapt their leadership styles to accommodate remote work arrangements, establish regular check-ins with employees, and provide opportunities for social interaction and team-building activities virtually (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

3A: Pandemic: Most Significant Leading Action for Company

The most significant leading action for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company during the pandemic would be to provide strong and empathetic leadership. Leaders should communicate regularly and transparently with employees, sharing updates, addressing concerns, and providing reassurance. They should actively listen to employees' feedback and ideas, fostering a culture of open communication and collaboration. Leaders should also promote employee well-being by encouraging work-life balance, offering support programs, and recognizing and appreciating employee efforts and achievements. By demonstrating empathy and resilience, leaders can inspire and motivate employees during this challenging time (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

1. Pandemic: Major Effects on Controlling for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company

The COVID-19 pandemic will have major effects on the controlling function of Smithfield Custom Furniture Company. Controlling involves monitoring performance, comparing it with goals, and taking corrective actions as needed. During the pandemic, there may be disruptions in production, supply chain, and sales. It is essential for the company to establish mechanisms to track and analyze relevant data to identify deviations from planned performance. This may involve implementing real-time monitoring systems, conducting regular financial analysis, and adjusting production and inventory levels accordingly. The company should also ensure compliance with health and safety regulations to protect employees and customers (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

4A: Pandemic: Most Significant Controlling Action for Company

The most significant controlling action for Smithfield Custom Furniture Company during the pandemic would be to implement a robust monitoring and analysis system. The company should establish key performance indicators (KPIs) related to production, sales, inventory, and financial performance. It should regularly collect and analyze data to identify any deviations from planned performance. If necessary, the company should take corrective actions, such as adjusting production levels, reallocating resources, or revising sales and marketing strategies. It is also crucial to ensure compliance with health and safety guidelines and regularly assess and improve the effectiveness of control measures (Lumen Learning, n.d.).

Reference:

Lumen Learning. (n.d.). Principles of Management. Retrieved from https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wmopen-principlesofmanagement/