Module 3

Module Three: Investigate the Issues - Structuring the Investigation Post Intake

Module Introduction

  • Overview of structuring questions and identifying issues post intake.

  • Determine the order for seeking information after intake.

  • Application of developing issues and selecting sources explained by Professor Brecker.

Morgan Case Study Issues

  • Initial Activity: Reflect on the issues presented by Morgan without submission required.

    • Act as the investigator for Morgan's complaint.

    • Analyze the information generated after Morgan's intake interview.

Information List from Morgan's Postmortem Intake Interview

  • Employee Background:

    • Position: Administrative Assistant in Account Management (hired one year ago).

    • Promotion: Assistant Account Representative (two months ago).

    • Supervising Manager: Jay, with three account representatives: Jesse, Jean, and Payton.

  • Workplace Interactions and Issues Identified:

    1. Morgan's feelings of frustration and upset due to Jay's comments.

    • Specific comments included: "useless," "grow up," and "you are acting like my 12-year-old."

    1. Work Context: Preparing a presentation for a staff meeting.

    2. Communication Issues:

    • Email from Jesse containing only the word "useless" (in caps).

    • Video conference held to prepare the presentation with an expectation of additional work hours.

    • Comments reflected Morgan's youth as an issue impacting her perceived capability.

    1. Absence of feedback or communication from Morgan about Jay's comments due to fear of repercussions.

Core Behaviors and Issues Development

  • Process of Structuring Issues Post Intake:

    • Identify core behaviors without concluding or detailing.

    • Example: "Using unsanitary equipment" as a core behavior rather than stating multiple issues like improper procedures.

    • Align each identified core behavior to related policies, ensuring understanding of any potential policy violations.

Importance of Listing Policies

  • Relationship Between Issues and Policies:

    • Listing related policies aids in recognizing whether violations have occurred, essential for gathering comprehensive information about each issue.

    • Example: If the core behavior is using unsanitary equipment, related policies might include safety protocols, code of conduct, and compliance requirements.

Structuring After Intake

  • Identifying The Issues:

    • Review and describe issues based on intake interviews and documented core behaviors.

  • Policies Relation: For every identified issue, list associated policies.

  • Considerations For Seeking Information Order:

    • How to determine the order based on the complexity of the investigation.

    • Consider effective timeframes and investigation scope, including gathering issues leading to conclusions and implementing outcomes.

Gathering Information Order

  • Initial Considerations: Reflect on the optimal approach for determining information order.

    • Open-mindedness about the initial three sources, recognizing the need for efficiency while ensuring thoroughness.

    • Example: If using HRIS as a primary source, consider how to incorporate additional sources for a broader understanding.

Sample Considerations for Developing Order

  • Factors influencing order determination:

    1. Importance of issues based on priority (e.g., compliance in sensitive environments).

    2. Organizational culture and structure may affect how information is prioritized and gathered.

    3. Evaluating the best source of information based on its relevance and value to the issues at hand.

  • Example of Priority Determination:

    • In a healthcare organization, using unsanitary equipment may be prioritized due to regulatory implications, focusing initially on compliance policies.

Morgan Case Study Debrief

  • Identifying Sources:

    • Review the identified documents and information lists, choosing the first sources to explore.

    • Address the upsides and downsides for each identified source, leading to a structured approach for information gathering.

Debrief Details

  • Recommended First Sources to Consider:

    1. Org Chart from HRIS

    • Upside: Provides insight into department structure and reporting lines.

    • Downside: May not provide immediate context on interpersonal dynamics.

    1. Discussion with Alex (Manager)

    • Upside: Can provide insight into department dynamics and existing knowledge of Morgan’s situation.

    • Downside: May influence subsequent interviews or perceptions of the investigation.

    1. Interview with Jesse (Peer)

    • Upside: Direct information related to the issues and Morgan's experience.

    • Downside: Potential for biased feedback due to personal rapport with Jay.

  • Final Consideration Steps: After evaluating these sources, determine which to pursue first and justify your reasoning based on potential impact and information gatherability.