Imagine that you are a manager responsible for choosing which new project to support. Your budget is limited, and you can support only one new project. You must make a decision by tomorrow morning. Your staff just finished presenting their ideas to you, and you are finding it difficult to choose. Each project has merit and you feel that they all have equal chance of success. As the meeting comes to a close, your team members each make a last-minute appeal to win your support.

Jose: You are a great leader and have always made great decisions for the team. I'm sure you'll choose the best one this time, too! INGRATIATION

Kira: You've always said we should aim high. I think my idea will help our company reach new markets and raise us to the next level. INSPIRATIONAL APPEALS

John: I think my idea has the highest chance for a good return on our investment with the least risk. My market research is sold, and I think my idea is our best choice. RATIONAL PERSUASION OR REASON

Sandy: I talked to the folks in marketing and they said that we were really onto something with my idea. I think they really support this project and hope you choose it. COALITION TACTICS

The key theme of this case revolves around decision-making under constraints, particularly how a manager navigates choosing between multiple viable options when resources are limited.

Compare/contrast: Reminder that you are the manager. You must decide which presentation to pick.

In narrative format, discuss the tactics each staff member uses. Discuss how each tactic differs or is consistent with what has been presented in this unit.