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Abstract

This case examines the leadership and entrepreneurial qualities of Henry Ford (Ford), the founder of Ford Motor Company. The case details how Ford''s vision (of producing an affordable car for the masses) and his innovations (Model T, moving assembly line approach, mass-production concept, Highland Park factory) transformed the global automobile industry. The case also examines Ford''s contributions in generating employment in the US and his best practices in managing human resources. Finally, the case discusses a few criticisms of Ford''s managerial practices. This case is structured to enable the students to: (1) identify and appreciate the qualities that characterise an entrepreneur and a leader; (2) understand the obstacles faced and struggles endured by a leader in transforming a vision into a reality; (3) recognise Ford''s invaluable contributions to the global automotive industry and the world in general; (4) examine the revolution brought in by Ford through his introduction of concepts like mass-production and moving assembly line - later adopted by manufacturing industries in various fields; (5) analyse the human resources practices initiated by Ford at the Ford Co; and (6) study the limitations of Ford as a leader and criticisms of him. The case is targeted at MBA/PGDBA students and is part of the entrepreneurship curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.
Location:
Industry:
Size:
Very large
Other setting(s):
1890-2003

About

Abstract

This case examines the leadership and entrepreneurial qualities of Henry Ford (Ford), the founder of Ford Motor Company. The case details how Ford''s vision (of producing an affordable car for the masses) and his innovations (Model T, moving assembly line approach, mass-production concept, Highland Park factory) transformed the global automobile industry. The case also examines Ford''s contributions in generating employment in the US and his best practices in managing human resources. Finally, the case discusses a few criticisms of Ford''s managerial practices. This case is structured to enable the students to: (1) identify and appreciate the qualities that characterise an entrepreneur and a leader; (2) understand the obstacles faced and struggles endured by a leader in transforming a vision into a reality; (3) recognise Ford''s invaluable contributions to the global automotive industry and the world in general; (4) examine the revolution brought in by Ford through his introduction of concepts like mass-production and moving assembly line - later adopted by manufacturing industries in various fields; (5) analyse the human resources practices initiated by Ford at the Ford Co; and (6) study the limitations of Ford as a leader and criticisms of him. The case is targeted at MBA/PGDBA students and is part of the entrepreneurship curriculum. The teaching note does not contain an analysis of the case.

Settings

Location:
Industry:
Size:
Very large
Other setting(s):
1890-2003

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