Question 1

Electronic brainstorming is a way of evaluating the ideas of others online.

Accepted Answer

Electronic brainstorming is a method for generating ideas where participants contribute their ideas over computer networks, focusing on idea generation rather than evaluation.

Question 2

The devil's advocate technique is similar to brainstorming in that both techniques prevent individuals from challenging the assumptions and assertions made by the group.

Accepted Answer

The statement is false. While brainstorming aims to generate a large quantity of ideas without immediately judging them, the devil's advocate technique is designed to challenge assumptions and assertions made by the group, promoting critical thinking and identifying flaws or weaknesses in arguments.

Question 3

Brainstorming uses a face-to-face interactive group to spontaneously suggest as many ideas as possible for solving a problem.

Accepted Answer

Brainstorming typically involves a group of people coming together to generate a large number of creative solutions to a particular problem or challenge, often through a free-flowing exchange of ideas and discussion.

Question 4

An example of a nonprogrammed decision would include the decision to:

Accepted Answer

Nonprogrammed decisions are unique and require a custom solution. Developing a new product or service is an example of a nonprogrammed decision because it requires creative problem-solving to meet a specific need or opportunity. The other options are routine decisions that can be programmed and standardized.

Question 5

Bierderlack has a policy that states that more than three absences in a six-month period shall result in a suspension. Colleen, the manager, has just decided to suspend one of her shift employees for violating this policy. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

This decision falls under a programmed decision as it is based on a pre-established policy of the organization.

Question 6

A certain amount of disagreement and conflict is much healthier than blind agreement.

Accepted Answer

A certain amount of disagreement and conflict can lead to constructive discussions and a better understanding of differing perspectives. Blind agreement can lead to groupthink and lack of critical thinking.

Question 7

Mark, a production manager at Kaylie's Kookware, recently chose to schedule his workers to work overtime. His alternative was to hire more workers. He is now monitoring the consequences of his choice. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Mark's decision to schedule overtime instead of hiring more workers involved a process of decision making, which is the process of selecting the best course of action from among multiple alternatives.

Question 8

People frequently look for new information that contradicts their existing instinct or point of view.

Accepted Answer

People tend to avoid information that contradicts their existing beliefs or points of view, as it can create cognitive dissonance or discomfort. This is known as confirmation bias.

Question 9

Programmed decisions are made in response to __________ organizational problems.

Accepted Answer

Programmed decisions are routine or repetitive decisions made in response to recurring, well-structured organizational problems. Unusual, unique or major problems require non-programmed decisions that may involve more creativity and risk-taking. Significant problems may require both programmed and non-programmed decision-making depending on their nature.

Question 10

Many nonprogrammed decisions are related to __________ because uncertainty is great and decisions are complex.

Accepted Answer

Nonprogrammed decisions are those that are not routine or repetitive, and require a significant amount of judgment and analysis. Strategic planning involves making decisions about the direction and goals of an organization, which often involves high levels of uncertainty and complexity. Therefore, many nonprogrammed decisions are related to strategic planning. The other options - innovation, strong leadership skills, and applying effective decision rules - may also play a role in nonprogrammed decisions, but are not as directly related to the complexity and uncertainty that characterize these types of decisions.

Question 11

__________ decisions are associated with decision rules.

Accepted Answer

Programmed decisions are decisions made in response to regular, routine, and recurring problems. Such decisions are based on established policies, procedures, and rules. These rules are made by an organization in anticipation of certain problems that are likely to occur.

Question 12

If your instructor has an attendance policy, she/he is using:

Accepted Answer

A programmed decision is one that is routine, repetitive and involves following established procedures or rules. Instructors often have attendance policies that they regularly enforce, making it a routine decision. Therefore, it can be classified as a programmed decision.

Question 13

__________ is a vital part of good management because decisions determine how the organization solves its problems, allocates resources, and accomplishes goals.

Accepted Answer

Good decision making is crucial for effective management as it impacts how the organization manages its issues, utilizes its resources, and achieves its goals. Making sound decisions involves analyzing information, evaluating alternatives, and choosing the best course of action for the organization's success.

Question 14

A department store's return's policy is an example of a(n) __________ decision.

Accepted Answer

A department store's return policy is a routine decision that can be considered a programmed decision. These types of decisions are made based on established rules, procedures and policies.

Question 15

Most people underestimate their ability to predict uncertain outcomes.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Most people underestimate their ability to predict...

Question 16

Managers at Lenovo apply an innovative decision-making technique called __________, which means "replaying the chessboard," in which they review every move to improve the next one.

Accepted Answer

"Fu pan" is a decision-making technique used by Lenovo managers, as described in the question stem. The other answer choices are unrelated to the technique described.

Question 17

Nonprogrammed decisions are made in response to situations that:

Accepted Answer

Nonprogrammed decisions are made in response to situations that are unique, largely unstructured, poorly defined and have important consequences for the organization. Therefore, all of these options are correct.

Question 18

A __________ is a choice made from available alternatives.

Accepted Answer

A decision is the act of choosing between available alternatives. The other options (plan, goal, tactic, strategy) are all components that may be considered or used in making a decision.

Question 19

Point-counterpoint and escalating commitment are two ways to stimulate rigorous debate.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Point-counterpoint and escalating commitment are two ways...

Question 20

__________ is the process of identifying problems and opportunities and then resolving them.

Accepted Answer

Decision making is the process of analyzing situations, identifying problems and opportunities, and then choosing a course of action to move forward. Organizing, controlling, planning, and leading are all important functions of management, but they do not specifically address the process of identifying and resolving problems and opportunities.

Quiz 9: Managerial Decision Making