As Director of New Projects, You Have Just Learned That

question 156

Essay

As director of new projects, you have just learned that cash flow problems have forced your organization to cut back product-development activities. This means that two of the eight projects currently being developed must be terminated, along with the employees working on those projects (about 25 per cent of employees in your unit). You have a good knowledge of these projects as well as the performance and seniority of employees who work in your unit. While some projects clearly have a high chance of success, the long-term potential of a couple of them is unknown. Identify the best level of employee involvement in this situation and describe three factors (contingencies) that support this level of involvement.

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Definitions:

Production Possibility Frontier

A curve depicting all maximum output possibilities for two goods, given a set of inputs and technology, assuming efficient use of resources.

New Technology

Innovations in techniques, tools, devices, or methods that improve efficiency, effectiveness, or utility in processes or product outputs.

Radishes

A type of root vegetable known for its peppery flavor and crunchy texture, often used in salads.

Opportunity Cost

The cost of forgoing the next best alternative when making a decision, representing the benefits one misses out on.