Date
Summer 2023
ESRP 9000 Professor
Jason Abreu, Ed.D.
ESRP 9001 Professor
Jason Abreu, Ed.D.
Executive Summary
This Strategic Research Project was designed to provide a plan to address the issue of fragmented leadership development in an organization that provides ABA therapy to children with autism. After assessing SWOT analysis results, internal and external factors were quantified, providing a score for each item that identified areas needing to be addressed for the organization to improve its performance. The SWOT analysis determined that a lack of leadership development created a disjointed approach to upskilling team members, leading to decreased organizational performance. Further, the lack of leadership development was found to have a profound effect on the organization's work culture due to scope creep, which impacted collaboration between staff.
After assessing the leadership deficit and its implications on the organization, four potential solutions were identified to address the leadership fragmentation. These solutions included microlearning, performance evaluation, shared leadership, and mentorship. To determine which solution would best support the development of effective organizational leadership, a comprehensive review of relevant literature was conducted. This analysis determined that the most effective solution would be a shift to a shared leadership approach, as opposed to traditional vertical leadership. This solution would enable the organization to develop a new leadership structure inclusive of five Board-Certified Behavior Analysts, an administrative director, the clinical director, and owner of the company. By adopting the shared leadership model, the organization could distribute leadership responsibilities and decision-making power more evenly, reducing fragmentation and promoting collaboration.
Two strategies were then selected to help implement the proposed solution: outsourcing and the strengths-based approach. The quantitative strategic plan matrix results were used to evaluate the strategies, and a total attractiveness score was assigned to each. After assessing the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy, the strengths-based approach was selected. A detailed action plan was then designed, with the action steps detailing how the organization will reach its goals. This plan included comprehensive training on shared leadership, the strengths-based approach, and specified steps to guarantee effective and timely implementation. Further recommendations were made, including fostering a sense of ownership and the establishment of a sense of collaboration and teamwork during the initial stages of the transition.
Document Type
Strategic Research Project-NSU Access Only
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
College
Abraham S. Fischler College of Education
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Jessica Leduc. 2023. A Strengths-Based Approach to Organizational Shared Leadership. Capstone. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education. (64)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_srp/64.