Companies are composed of individuals, each of which brings a unique skill or talent to the organization. In small companies, each individual may be responsible for many tasks; in large organizations, there is a higher degree of specialization. Regardless of whether the company is large or small, however, it is important to the company's success that each individual work in harmony with the company's goals and objectives. Doing so enhances the overall productivity as well as the profitability of the organization. This research examines the various types of skills which may be found in organizations, and how these diverse skill levels can be brought to one harmonious whole.
In any company, there are always people associated with the manufacture of the product, or with the direct providing of services (Hart, 159). For example, in a company which manufactures lead pipes, there are welders and pipe fitters who directly make the product. In a law firm, lawyers provide the direct service to the customer. These people have very specific skills which are directly related to the service which they provide the company, and to the company's overall business as a whole. In large companies, the skills can be broad and varied. For example, a factory which produces automobiles may have mechanics, painters, glaziers and upholsterers all performing their individual skills.
In addition to personnel who are directly related to the product, there are support staff. These may be clerical, such as secretaries, administrative assistants and receptionists. Supervisors and managers who are not directly involved with the physical product but who supervise its production, managing budgets, hiring personnel and planning production schedules, can also be seen as working in a support capacity.
Other tasks, such as marketing, require still different skills. Understanding the market in which the company competes is a primary prerequisite for ...