Q. Review the Case Study: Implementing Culture Change in Food Service, located on page 479 of your text. Next, examine the main structural and process changes that will be required to design and implement family-style dining at this facility. Q. Suggest a plan of action to address Ms. Laird’s concerns from the Planning Committee meeting regarding noise, security, and other potential disruptions expected during the construction of the new kitchens and dining areas. Provide a rationale for your response.
Case Study: Implementing Culture Change in Food Service
Introduction
Implementing culture change in food service can be a complex process that requires careful planning and consideration of structural and process changes. This case study examines the challenges faced by a facility in implementing family-style dining and proposes a plan of action to address concerns related to the construction process and potential disruptions.
Structural Changes
To implement family-style dining, several structural changes will be required in the facility. Firstly, the current kitchen layout will need to be reconfigured to accommodate the needs of family-style dining. This may include the addition of new equipment, such as larger serving stations and dining tables. Moreover, the seating arrangement may need to be modified to create a more communal dining experience.
In addition, the facility may need to consider renovating the dining area to accommodate the new dining concept. A more open and inviting space may need to be created to foster a sense of community among residents. This might involve the addition of comfortable seating, artwork, and other aesthetic elements to create a warm and welcoming environment.
Process Changes
Alongside structural changes, various process changes will also be required to implement family-style dining. One crucial aspect is defining the roles and responsibilities of staff members in the new dining setup. They will need to be trained on their new roles, such as serving residents, clearing tables, and ensuring a smooth flow of food and beverages.
The ordering and delivery process may also need to be revamped. In a family-style dining setup, residents may have more choice in terms of their meals, and therefore, a system for taking orders and delivering food promptly must be established. This could involve the development of a new computerized ordering system or the implementation of a manual order-taking process.
Moreover, an emphasis on resident engagement and participation is necessary to ensure the success of family-style dining. Residents should be encouraged to provide feedback, suggest menu items, and be actively involved in the decision-making process. This can be achieved through regular meetings and gathering input from residents and their families.
Plan of Action to Address Concerns
Ms. Laird has raised concerns during the Planning Committee meeting regarding noise, security, and potential disruptions during the construction of the new kitchens and dining areas. To address these concerns, a detailed plan of action should be developed.
Firstly, noise concerns can be mitigated by scheduling construction activities during specific hours to minimize disruption to residents. Construction materials and equipment that generate excessive noise can also be substituted with quieter alternatives. Communication with residents should be a priority, and regular updates on the progress and expected noise levels can be provided to manage expectations.
Security concerns can be addressed by implementing appropriate measures during the construction process. The facility can hire additional security personnel to monitor the construction site and ensure the safety of residents. Physical barriers, such as temporary fencing, can also be installed to restrict access to construction areas and prevent unauthorized entry. Regular communication with residents about the steps taken to ensure security during the construction process will help alleviate concerns.
Potential disruptions during the construction phase can be minimized by setting up alternative dining arrangements. Temporary dining facilities can be established to ensure that residents continue to receive meals without interruption. These temporary facilities can be equipped with similar amenities to the existing dining areas to maintain the quality of service. The facility can also provide additional staff to support the transition and address any concerns raised by residents during this period.
Rationale for the Proposed Plan of Action
The proposed plan of action addresses the concerns raised by Ms. Laird during the Planning Committee meeting in a comprehensive manner. By scheduling construction activities during specific hours and providing regular updates to residents, noise concerns can be effectively managed. The hiring of additional security personnel and the installation of physical barriers will help address the security concerns associated with the construction process. Finally, the establishment of temporary dining facilities ensures that residents’ dining needs are met during the construction phase, minimizing disruptions.
Overall, the plan of action focuses on effective communication, security measures, and alternative arrangements to address the concerns raised during the Planning Committee meeting. By implementing these measures, the facility can successfully navigate the challenges associated with the construction process and ensure a smooth transition to family-style dining.