Abstract
Mount Cedar Technologies Inc was founded in Los Angeles, CA in 1995. It began as an importer and distributor of computer accessories, but by 2000 had evolved into an IT infrastructure integrator specializing in hardware and software products, storage and security solutions, and technical services to enterprise, small and medium businesses, and to government, educational, and medical institutions. Its employees grew rapidly from 6 in 1995 to more than 170 employees in 2006. The company lacked an organizational structure to improve its operations' effectiveness. Department managers acknowledged that they were very busy reacting to problems and customer issues, allowing them little time to coordinate and listen to their employees. Decision making was highly decentralized. While John Curtis (CEO) had been instrumental in growing the organization, his present leadership style had become increasingly problematic to many including upper management. The culture was described by many people as a task oriented one that did not encourage risk taking or empowerment.