Summary
Globalization in the last few decades has disrupted businesses worldwide, causing many organizations to consider the use of the open talent economy. This case is presented from the perspective of a seasoned information technology professional, Anthony, who works at Home Furnishings, a U.S. membership organization that guarantees their members wholesale prices on thousands of top brands and products for the home. Home Furnishings employs a team of consultants to implement a new enterprise resource planning software (ERP) system, with the goal of modernizing and integrating all parts of the organization. In the course of installing the new software system, Home Furnishings transitions to a cross-cultural business environment, which is different from the corporate culture Anthony experienced when he worked at Home Furnishings almost 10 years prior. This case raises important questions about a cross-cultural business environment, the open talent economy, and talent management. Students will be asked to evaluate the importance of topics such as global mindset, global talent trends, and the use of talent analytics as it relates to Home Furnishings and the open talent economy.