OGL 481 Pro-Seminar I:

PCA-Choosing an Organization Worksheet

Worksheet Objectives:
1. Identify an organization and situation you want to study over the remainder of the course.
2. Describe the organization and the situation

Complete the following making sure to support your ideas and cite from the textbook and other
course materials per APA guidelines. After the peer review, you have a chance to update this and
format for your Electronic Portfolio due in Module 6.

1) Name and describe your organization.

The organization I partnered with is Uber Technologies Inc., more commonly known as
Uber. Founded in 2009, Uber is a multinational ride-hailing company based in San Francisco,
California. Its primary services include peer-to-peer ridesharing, ride service hailing, food
delivery (Uber Eats), and a micro-mobility system with electric bikes and scooters.Uber
operates by connecting riders to drivers through its software application. The platform has
significantly disrupted traditional transportation systems across the globe by offering a more
convenient, often more affordable, and user-friendly alternative. It has become a symbol of
the gig economy, where workers are independent contractors who take on a variety of "gigs"
rather than being full-time employees.Uber's operation model is an example of a digital
platform that mediates between consumers and service providers. It's an organization that is
defined by its innovative use of technology to disrupt traditional market models and
transform the way we think about personal transportation and delivery services.

2) Describe your role in the organization (it can be an internal or external role).

As an Uber driver, my primary responsibility was to provide safe, reliable, and efficient
transportation for riders. This role demanded that I navigate through the city using the
most optimal routes, manage time effectively to ensure punctual pickups and drop-offs,
and maintain the cleanliness and safety of my vehicle. My role also encompassed
customer service. I was the frontline representative of Uber to the riders, so I was
responsible for creating a pleasant and comfortable riding experience. This often included
friendly communication, respecting rider preferences, and handling any concerns or
complaints promptly and professionally.
3) Describe the situation, including information you think the will help the reader
understand the most important elements of the situation. (This will require
selectivity: part of the art of case writing is separating the essential facts from the
mass of information that might be included).

1
As an Uber driver, New Year's Eve proved to be an instructive experience in organizational
leadership. The demand for rides was exceptionally high that evening. I quickly recognized that
having clear goals was critical. My objective was to serve as many riders as possible while
ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for each. The ride requests were incessant, pushing me
to employ effective division of labor. I had to manage not only the driving but also customer
service, navigation, and timely communication with riders. There were also moments when
personal agendas could have overtaken rational decision-making - it was tempting to prioritize
high-profit rides due to surge pricing. However, I knew it was essential to provide a reliable
service to all riders, regardless of the distance or profitability of the ride. Lastly, I faced some
technical glitches with the Uber app during the peak demand period, which was a structural flaw
that momentarily affected my performance. These experiences highlighted the real-world
application of various organizational leadership concepts, reinforcing their significance in my
role.

2
 Reference or References
(Choose appropriate Title if Applicable and Delete the Rest)