In today’s workplace many managers find it difficult to learn new strategies. They usually lack the time and resources needed to gain this knowledge. A solution is found in HCS. The Solution was developed in the mid 70’s by a new breed of management researchers, an eclectic group of managers, professionals and entrepreneurs, with an integrated perspective on management and entrepreneurship.
The Solution identified common processes that are necessary for successful entrepreneurship, but often overlooked in organizations. The Solution elaborates on five business skills: leadership, conflict resolution, social skills, innovation, and innovation strategy.
Over the years the HCS has been used in the Harvard Business School in conjunction with various academic and practice environments. Case Study Analysis Grading Rubric is an approach which is used to analyze the performance of managers using a four-level grading system.
Every executive course that requires the use of CSS involves a series of modules which provide a framework for learning to apply the solutions based on the principles and skills described in the CSS. Based on these modules the HCS courses include the following core modules:
Leadership competency: This module defines leadership competencies as the performance of leadership skills. In this module the student is asked to identify, as a whole, the competencies they have developed in different domains of leadership to be used in other areas. The faculty guide the students in identifying competencies. There are two basic modes of organization, according to this module, one is leadership which are undertaking to effect positive change, and the other is managerial excellence which entail leadership of the kind that builds strong organizational cultures and is based on excellence.
Social skills: This module talks about the importance of social skills. The main focus is on social perception and human relations. It presents three important social perceptions which are: leadership perception, communication skills, and teamwork.
Innovation: This module discusses the role of innovation in achieving organizational success. It is essential to realize that innovation cannot be achieved alone. It is developed through a critical evaluation of the knowledge and experience in all areas which may involve interaction. It provides the necessary tools to achieve innovative initiatives.
Innovation Strategy: This module focuses on the organizational innovation and why it is necessary to maintain organizational innovation. The best ways to carry out innovation are presented. In addition, the value of the innovation strategy is established.
Innovation Process: This module talks about the process of innovation. The main areas covered in this module are: identifying innovation opportunities, identifying groups to be involved in the innovation process, identifying activities required to support the innovation process, establishing resources and managing the business innovation system.
Critical Situations: This module focuses on the basic elements in a system and how to deal with them. Strategies to deal with problems are also presented.
In conclusion the Case Study Analysis Grading Rubric gives students a highly practical understanding of the core principles of any organization. Therefore it should be considered when taking up any of the HCS modules in Harvard Business School.
