South West Airlines Case Study

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QUESTION 1 To summarize what I find particularly impressive about Southwest Airlines is their different approach to the aviation industry. This statement can however be broken down and further explained by taking an in-depth look how Southwest approaches their key components. 1. People Southwest has a exceptional approach towards their employees. Their strong focus on individuals who are prone to innovation, not inhibiting forward, logical thinking rather than a process driven work ethic has assured that employees have a sense of job satisfaction and that they were employed for being themselves – not for simply following rules. For the 1970’s this was particularly revolutionary as this was a period in time mostly dominated by Fordism thinking. Furthermore, instilling a company culture that employees come first, then customers is still a very rare company trade mark. Southwest however achieved this and also then assured that their employees have a genuine caring for their customers. Herb Kelleher, supported this by being willing to lose customers who did not embrace the company culture and steadfast behind his beliefs even in times of crisis and instilling the no-layoff policy. 2. Point-to-point system With Southwest point-to-point system it was possible for them to minimize turn-over time at airports to only 25min. With this they reduced the number of aircraft and gate facilities required and thus cutting back costs which was directed into the customers pockets. Southwest also steered clear of congested airports, to further assure a short turn-over time. 3. Consistency Southwest has been consisted in following their mission and with this delivering excellent customer service. Southwest has also never had a plane crash and consistently shows a profitable turnover. QUESTION 2 Southwest deserves an A for strategy crafting and

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