Final answer:
To improve coordination between functional departments, creating liaison roles or adopting a matrix structure could be effective. These approaches are in line with current trends favoring flatter organizational structures and increased teamwork, which emphasize cross-departmental collaboration and the importance of building collegial relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the methods through which coordination between functional departments can be improved in a corporate setting, specifically addressing the situation at Rocke Inc. In recent organizational trends, flattening hierarchies is preferred and teamwork is emphasized. To improve cross-departmental coordination, creating liaison roles would involve designating individuals whose primary responsibility is to facilitate communication and coordination between departments. Another method is through the adoption of a matrix structure, which typically involves employees reporting to more than one manager, thus forcing cross-departmental collaboration as part of the organizational design. This contrasts with the addition of more functional managers, which could increase bureaucracy. Finally, converting the production line into a team-based process aligns with contemporary workforce trends of emphasizing teamwork and collaboration to bring diverse skills and expertise together for problem-solving.
While the team-based approach is popular, it is important to recognize the potential drawbacks. The work output of teams is an area of active research and depends on various factors including the specific context within the organization. Nonetheless, focusing on a teamwork-centric method can be beneficial for complex tasks requiring diverse inputs and interdisciplinary knowledge. In addition, building good relationships with peers, managers, and other coworkers is essential for promoting a collaborative environment and is well worth the investment for career success.