Discussion Questions for Chapter 2

Mintzberg "The Manager's Job"

* The Mintzberg says that managers aren't reflective, systematic planners. Do you think they should be? Why or why not.

* Mintzberg says that managers don't, and shouldn't, make much use of MIS systems. Do you agree with this? How can MIS systems benefit managers?

* Which description of the manager-as-conductor do you think is more accurate-Drucker's or Sayles's? Which should be the more accurate one?

Wrapp "Good Managers Don't Make Policy Decisions"

* What do you think of Boulding's comment that "the purpose of a hierarchy is to prevent information from reaching higher layers?"

* What do you think of Wrapp's contention that well-defined policies are not typical of well-managed companies?

Prahalad and Hamel "Strategic Intent"

* Prahalad and Hamel say that strategy should be an "extreme misfit" between resources and opportunities. What you do think about this statement? Do you agree? Why or why not.

* What is your reaction to the metaphor of strategic intent being like a "marathon run in 400 meter sprints?"

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