Analyzing the case

Write a 4-5 page paper answering the following prompts. Your paper will essentially summarize the case, specifically focusing on what challenges Nadella faced as a leader, what steps he took to overcome those challenges, and whether he succeeded or not. Your responses must be supported by the facts of the case, and make appropriate reference to course materials.

1. What was Nadella’s diagnosis of the problems at Microsoft? a. What were the biggest challenges he faced when he took charge? b. Which of Lencioni’s 5 areas of dysfunction in teams were present at Microsoft? c. What goals did Nadella set for transforming the organization?

2. In thinking about Nadella’s style and the steps he took as a change leader, address the following: a. Drawing on Daniel Goleman’s “Leadership that Gets Results” (from Week 3), which styles of leadership most closely match Nadella’s style? Explain. b. Which one of Jack’s “8 Rules of Leadership” is most evident in Nadella’s initiatives? Explain using specific examples from the case to support your response. c. In terms of company culture, how did Nadella change specific systems and processes to improve teamwork? d. Nadella frequently uses the term “growth mindset.” What does this mean, and how did he foster it?

3. How effective have Nadella’s efforts been? In particular: a. What metrics should be used to evaluate the success of his efforts? b. What else could Nadella and his team do to sustain the wins they have achieved so far? c. What additional challenges do you expect he will face?