The "Kessler Syndrome," "proposed by NASA scientist Donald J.

1. The "Kessler Syndrome," "proposed by NASA scientist Donald J. Kessler in 1978, is a scenario in which the density of objects in low Earth orbit (LEO) is high enough that collisions between objects could cause a cascade - each collision generating debris which increases the likelihood of further collisions. One implication is that the distribution of debris in orbit could render space exploration, and even the use of satellites, unfeasible for many generations." Now take the idea of the Kessler Syndrome and metaphorically apply it to the workings of large and complex organizations. There is a sense in which large organizational problems cascade into smaller ones through internal conflict, disagreements over approach, employee positioning to preserve pay and perquisites, turf conflicts, other bickering and so forth. These conflicts and the Kessler-like cascading effect often prevent organizations from addressing significant problems and damage the organizations or lead to their demise. Referring to Kettl, Senge and other readings and course material, analyze organizational failure and problems from the perspective of the Kessler metaphor.

2. Now, considering your answer concerning the Kessler Syndrome, produce and describe remedies discussed in the Senge and Kettl texts that will help organizations to avoid fracturing, inability to address major problems, cascading devolution from serious inquiry to mere bickering, and ineffective allocation of resources.

3. Consider the report on the NUMMI plant and evaluate the relationship - as discussed in the report - between the United Auto Workers union and GM management. What were the important features that caused such a dramatic change in organizational climate? Is such an approach replicable in other organizations? If so, describe a similar example of change or discuss a problem that is ripe for a NUMMI-like conversion.