In this project, you will demonstrate your mastery of the following competency:

• Explain the interrelatedness of the functions and forms of organizations.

Scenario

You currently work for Currier Grocery, a small, nonprofit grocery store. In your position at Currier, you spend most of your time balancing multiple positions and responsibilities within the organization. Recently, you have felt as though you cannot grow your skills in the areas you are most interested in, such as data analytics. You are looking to change jobs, but are uncertain of which type of organization is right for you.

One day while you are having lunch with your colleague, Buzz Nes, he suggests that you research companies that interest you and consider whether they may be a good fit. Before you get started, Buzz reminds you how important it is to consider the organization's form, whether the organization's goals align to your own, and how your interest in data analytics could fit into the larger organization.

As you read about other organizations, you know some may not currently offer employment opportunities, so you decide it's a good idea to take notes for reference and check back to see if positions are available at a later date. As you research organizations that interest you, consider what you might say in a job application or interview. You will want to be able to talk about where you currently work and how it compares to the organization you are hoping to work for.

Directions

You decide to research several organizations and focus on one to start. Selectoneorganization from the Business Organizations document in the Supporting Materials section below. You will compare and contrast Currier Grocery (the organization you currently work for) and the one organization you select. To guide your research and personal job notes, address the following in the template provided: BAE Systems, Inc.

This is the company description from the BAE Systems, Inc. website:

BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. (BAE Systems, 2019)

• An organization's form is the overarching characteristics that define the type of organization, including how and why the organization formed; the organization's location(s), size, and type of ownership; whether the organization is nonprofit or for-profit; the goods and services the organization offers; how long the organization has been in business; and the organization's mission, vision, and core values.Compare and contrast the characteristics of each organization's form.Specifically, be sure to identify the characteristics of each organization's form and take note of the similarities and differences between each.
• Organizations are typically organized or structured into groups of functional areas. These functional areas develop groups of staff, or departments, to ensure the smooth flow of information and operations within the organization structure.Describe the role of key functional areas within each organization. Consider the following:
  • What key functional areas exist within each organization?
  • What role does each function play within the organization?
  • How might a data professional support the organization's functions?
• Discuss the relationship between each organization's form and its functions within the organization. Specifically, address the following:
  • How might the purpose of each functional area vary based on the form of the organization?
  • What functional areas might a data analyst work closely or consult with?