1. Using the four functions as your guide, what challenges would Jeff Bourk face in managing the Branson Airport?
2. Again, using the four functions as your guide, do you think the managerial challenges Jeff Bourk faced when getting the airport up and running are different from what he faces now in actually overseeing the airport’s operation? Explain.
3. What management roles would Jeff Bourk be playing as he
(a) Negotiates new contracts with potential airlines,
(b) Works with the airport employees in providing a high level of customer service to arriving and departing passengers, and
(c) Resolves the contractual issues with the city of Branson? Be specific and explain your choices.
4. What skills would be most important to a manager like Jeff Bourk? Explain your choices.
With a small year-round population, Branson, Missouri, is in a location not easily accessible by air service.45 The city, best known for its country music and music variety shows and family-style attractions, also has the kinds of outdoor activities that attracted more than 8 million visitors last year, “earning it the unofficial nickname ‘Vegas without the gambling.’” About 95 percent of those visitors come by car or bus. But now there’s a new show in town—the Branson Airport. The $155 million airport, which opened in May 2009, is an experiment that many people are watching.
