Organizing a global company: the Caterpillar case

Résumé du document

Within the framework of the course "Organizing a Global Company" we are invited to realize a group work composed of two parts. The objective of the first part is to try to analyze and to understand the organizational structure of an international company better, taking into account the specific environment of the company, its strengths and weaknesses and also improve its performances through the process of the "learning organization". A second objective of this part is to analyze the HR approaches of an international company applying the different tools provided and the support of the lectures. The aim of this first part is to try to detect the problems and try to give recommendations and propose solutions. The objectives of the second part are to analyze in depth a case of split salary system, to explain the general findings, and to try to make some recommendations for the future. In order to fulfil this mission, we have chosen a Belgian subsidiary of the well-known international company, Caterpillar Belgium. More precisely, we are going to analyse a Belgian exclusive dealership company, Bergerat Monnoyeur Belgium, an initially French company specialized in the retail of Caterpillar's products directly to the "consumers". We will first give a general overview of the company focusing on the human resources management. Then, we will focus on the heart of the problematic, which is dealing with the integration and the adaptation of the myths and the corporate culture of the American monster by the Belgian subsidiary. And finally, we will end this work with a conclusion, in which we include our advices and recommendations.

Extraits

[...] They are doing their best in order to maintain this high quality that makes Caterpillar so well known against its competitors. For those people, working with such engines and machines is like embracing a dream. Most of them know these machines since their childhood and follow carefully the evolution of every engines of the brand. That is precisely the key of their success. Caterpillar has created a so high level of recognition for everyone that working for them is like reaching a dream. [...]

[...] Besides, Bergerat Monnoyeur has chosen a yellow logo to adapt a yellow colour to reflect caterpillar's original logo. d. Summary To summarize this part and to have a better understanding of the similarities and differences between the Belgian and the American organization, here is a conclusion table: o Values and beliefs: o Rites: o Symbols & Myths: e. Internal communication The enterprise really focuses on a good level of communication between all the hierarchies. Firstly, in order to gather and improve the interaction between technicians and executives, the Belgian company regularly organised teambuilding activities such as adventure journey or a role play. [...]

[...] This annual campaign became known as the Caterpillar Employees United Way Appeal (CEUWA). Since the campaign began percent of all employee contributions raised through CEUWA have been distributed back to the employee's local United Way. The individual United Ways then fund various agencies within their communities, where the employees and families live and work.[7] - The Matching Gifts Program It is important to Caterpillar to support their employees and retirees in their contributions to worthy causes. To provide this support, Caterpillar offers the Matching Gifts Program. [...]

[...] Indeed, by working together, we can produce better results than any of us can achieve alone. The company prohibits discrimination (racial, religious, national They value diversity and treat everyone fairly; always in the idea that people are doing better while working together. Commitment: The power of responsibility embrace our responsibilities” For Caterpillar, being Responsible citizen and a respectful member of the community is predominant. That is why they attached great importance to health safety of employees and their work place. The ethical aspect is important in their activities. [...]

[...] They offer a wide range of different programs: - Educational Assistance: Caterpillar offers financial assistance towards ongoing education fees for our employees. - Caterpillar University: this university leads the company's continual learning efforts by offering classes and e-learning courses to sharpen the skills of their employees, dealers, suppliers and customers. Caterpillar University offers courses on topics such as: Process Improvement Personal Effectiveness Leadership Skills 6 Sigma Methodology Coaching & Mentoring Skills Team Building IT Certification - Caterpillar Tuition Assistance Plan: for employees that wish to supplement the continual learning opportunities offered within their business unit or prepare for a future position within the company, the Caterpillar Tuition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provides reimbursement for courses taken from an accredited college or university. [...]