MARCH 20208n today's economy no organization is an island. Organizations collaborate with each other across industry boundaries on technology, marketing, innovation, research, supply chain and many other key aspects. Organizations are connected with each other forming constellations of collaborations known as Inter-organizational Networks or Value Chains or Ecosystems. Interestingly many resources that influence the performance of one organization are controlled by other companies. In such an environment, it is vital that managers are trained to deal with the dynamics of inter-organizational linkages and leverage the networks around them.Traditionally inter-organizational leadership has not been an important part of the curriculum; however, all premium schools understand its significance. There are certain components of B-school experience which directly focus on issues related to inter-organizational management while there are other elements which focus on developing a collaborative mindset which is essential for working in a network environment. Here are a few ways in which top management schools prepare students for inter-organizational management:Developing Inter-Organizational Management Skills through CurriculumThere are formal courses in organizational dynamics which address topics like group relations, conflict, teamwork and distributed leadership on a conceptual level. In addition, the business strategy course deals with managing value chains where the best practices in managing inter-organizational challenges are discussed.All excellent B-schools employ the case method as a pedagogy which addresses some of these issues. Most case studies deal with real-life situations where students are forced to consider various dimensions of a problem and usually involve multiple business functions and entities like suppliers and customers. Even though a case may be related to marketing but the approach may involve interaction with the advertising agency, content creators and other agencies. Students understand the significance of dealing with and influencing people who play a key role despite not being part of the same organization. Further, group project is another useful tool which allows students to develop a collaborative mindset.A number of B-Schools utilize immersion exercises as part of their curriculum. These exercises aid future managers to immerse themselves in reality and develop an understanding of knowledge in a wider context. IIN MY OPINIONHOW B-SCHOOL TRAINING ADDRESSES THE IMPORTANCE OF INTER-ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP AND NETWORKSBy Prof. Janat Shah, Founding Director Indian Institute of Management UdaipurA mechanical engineer from IIT Bombay, Prof. Shah has been responsible for management education programs for executives in several companies, including Aditya Birla Group, Bharti Airtel, IBM, Infosys Ltd., Ingersoll Rand, among othersProf. Janat Shah, Founding Director
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