Business Case Studies & Business Publications

WillowTree: Product Driven with a Projec...

Nelson, Ryan, Wrig...

Case

WillowTree: Product Driven with a Project Mindset (B)

Nelson, Ryan; Wright, Ryan

S-0446 | Published January 18, 2024 | 9 pages Case

Collection: Darden School of Business

Add To Cart Buy Now

Product Details

This case, a follow-up to "WillowTree: Project Driven with a Product Mindset (A)" (UVA-S-0338), examines WillowTree, a digital products company that is navigating the implications of employees returning to the office after the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns and also coping with increased employee desire to continue working from home. It explores the shift in client contract preferences toward more flexible, team-oriented models and the subsequent adjustments in team formation and collaboration strategies. The case also delves into how WillowTree measured and responded to client and team sentiment, and the effect transitioning back to office work had on WillowTree's employee satisfaction and organizational culture. The case highlights the resilience and adaptability of digital businesses that previously relied on colocated teams to develop and deliver its products. The managerial dilemma posed by this follow-up case is: What is an optimal policy for returning to work in the office? This decision will define the company's future.