BUSI 600 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY Module 6Discussion Thread- Akron Children’s HospitalXXXXXX_ASSIGNMENT_2022.pdf | BUSI 600 - Business Research Methods

Q1. What is the management-research question hierarchy for Akron Children’s Hospital? The management-research question in this case study is how to gain more customers to increase the bed occupancy rate. Akron Children’s Hospital is the region’s largest pediatric care provider with 253 beds. The Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital and the Cleveland Clinic are also very highly ranked children’s hospitals. This presented the management at Akron Children’s Hospital with a dilemma. Management identified the dilemma as declining sales. I know this may sound inhumane since the goal of Akron Children’s Hospital is to treat sick children, but they were in the process of losing market share to two other competing hospitals. Akron needed to determine how they could gain the confidence of their market once again. Llopis (2013, November 4) wrote that there are four ways that effective leaders solve problems. They are transparent communication, break down silos (how to make the organization better), open-minded people, and a solid foundational strategy. In this case study, Akron Children’s Hospital knew that a change needed to be made and communicated that need. People within in the organization spoke up and determined that they needed help. Therefore, Marcus Thomas LLC was hired for their insights and recommendations (Schindler, 2004, p 2). Second, the way they broke down the silos was to hire the assistance of an outside organization. Akron Children’s Hospital was still committed to helping children, but they needed to communicate the message. Next, they had open minded people. Marcus Thomas LLC introduced a concept that hadn’t been thought of before. They devised a plan that would expand to neighboring counties. Also, they conducted research that included shadowing physicians, parents, and child patients to record the emotional connections that went into the decision-making process. Lastly, they used a solid foundational strategy. Once all the research was complete, Marcus Thomas LLC determined a brand promise that would be the foundation of trust with their customers.