Autonomous Work Grouos (Quick Revision)

Question 1

Define: Autonomous Work Groups

Answer 1

Autonomous Work groups are teams of employees given the authority to make their own decisions.

Question 2

State two possible benefits of autonomous work groups.

Answer 2

• May motivate employees

* May lead to faster and better decisions and solutions to problems

Question 3

State one possible problem of autonomous work groups.

Answer 3

The group may pursue their own objectives and not the firm’s

Question 4

Are autonomous work groups part of a centralised or decentralised approach? Why?

Answer 4

Decentralised; they involve passing authority down through the organisation

Question 5

State two reasons why managers might decide to introduce autonomous work groups.

Answer 5

• Existing system not working well

* Lack of employee motivation

Question 6

What is the Examiner’s note for Autonomous Work Groups?

Answer 6

Many manufacturing firms have moved away from the production line approach and created cells or teams responsible for different parts of the process. This is often found to be more productive and motivating.

Question 7

What is the Evaluation point for Autonomous Work Groups?

Answer 7

The effectiveness of autonomous work groups depends on how well individuals work together and whether they have the skills and resources required.