Publications
Publications
- May 1996 (Revised May 1997)
- HBS Case Collection
Colliers International Property Consultants, Inc.: Managing a Virtual Organization
By: Lynda M. Applegate and Carin-Isabel Knoop
Abstract
In less than 20 years, the real estate firm Colliers International expanded into a federation of 180 offices with close to 4,500 professionals in over 30 countries. Because Colliers expanded by signing up existing firms strong in their local markets, its leaders had to manage a portfolio of firms with revenues ranging from $500,000 to over $80 million. Some were over 150 years old; others less than one. Firms provided services ranging from commission-based brokerage services to advisory services more akin to consulting services involving retainer fees. Colliers leaders are considering how their organization should respond to the changing needs of real estate clients. Colliers managers need to decide what organizational structure, management practices, and IT strategy their organization requires to enter the next century.
Keywords
Demand and Consumers; Globalized Firms and Management; Management Practices and Processes; Service Operations; Information Technology; Organizational Structure; Mergers and Acquisitions; Business Strategy; Budgets and Budgeting; Real Estate Industry
Citation
Applegate, Lynda M., and Carin-Isabel Knoop. "Colliers International Property Consultants, Inc.: Managing a Virtual Organization." Harvard Business School Case 396-080, May 1996. (Revised May 1997.)