This case describes the experience of the Detroit Medical Center (DMC)
in restructuring its governance and management. It provides a backgro
und on the DMC, examines the driving forces that led to modification o
f its structure, identifies key principles in guiding the change and d
escribes the strategies and specific steps taken in managing structura
l change. Finally, the critical lessons learned about leadership style
, communication, agenda development and relations with the board, medi
cal staff, and management are discussed. This case study will help red
uce the learning curve for any large, complex organization undertaking
board and management restructuring to better meet its mission. At the
time of DMC's restructuring there were no models to guide the effort.
This case study attempts to reduce the gap in research on the managem
ent of structural change.