Why might business customers generally be considered more rational in their purchasing behavior than ultimate consumers?
If you were asked to provide a small tip (or bribe) to have a document approved in a foreign nation where this practice is customary, what would you do?
Are any of the groups to which you belong too large or too small to get their work done? If so, what can the leader or the members do to alleviate the problem?
When your alarm goes off each morning, you have a decision to make—whether to get up and go to school or work or to stay in bed and sleep longer. Is this a programmed or nonprogrammed decision? Why?
Full Answer Section
- Justification & Accountability: Business purchases require justification and documentation. They need to show the decision aligns with company goals and provides a good return on investment (ROI).
Ethical Dilemma: Approving a Document with a Bribe
Being asked for a bribe to approve a document presents an ethical dilemma. Here's how to approach it:
- Refusal: This is the most ethical option. Explain that your company has a strict anti-bribery policy and suggest alternative solutions like following proper procedures or providing additional documentation.
- Report: Inform the appropriate authorities within your company or the local jurisdiction. This helps combat corruption and protects your business reputation.
- Escalate: If pressured, escalate the issue to your manager or a higher authority within the foreign company.
Group Size and Effectiveness
Groups that are too large can become cumbersome and slow decision-making. Here's how to improve effectiveness:
- Sub-Teams: Create smaller sub-teams to focus on specific tasks and report back to the larger group.
- Facilitation: Utilize a facilitator to guide discussions, manage time, and ensure participation from all members.
- Decision-Making Tools: Implement tools like voting or consensus-building techniques to reach clear decisions.
Groups that are too small may lack diversity of thought and expertise. Here's how to address it:
- Seek External Input: Consult with external experts or conduct research to broaden the group's knowledge base.
- Collaboration: Encourage collaboration with other departments or teams to gain additional perspectives.
- Expand the Team: If resources allow, consider adding new members with relevant skills and experience.
Programmed vs. Non-programmed Decision: Hitting Snooze
The decision to hit snooze in the morning is most likely a programmed decision. Programmed decisions are routine, repetitive choices made with minimal conscious thought. You've likely developed a habit based on your sleep schedule and preferences.
However, if there's an important event or a tight deadline that day, the decision to get up on time becomes more complex, requiring conscious evaluation of factors and potential consequences. This would then be classified as a non-programmed decision.