Laura is head of ABC Systems. She needs to allocate a fixed amount of funds to various projects. There are two top projects that Laura believes hold the most promise. She decides to arrange a structured debate for the two top proposals. Importantly, the assumptions of each proposal are identified, and a conflicting counterproposal is generated based on a different set of assumptions. Advocates of each position present and debate the merits of their proposal before Laura makes her decision. Which technique is Laura using to help her make a better decision?
A) Dialectic method
B) Devil's advocacy
C) Diagnostic process
D) Mediation
E) Negotiation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Laura is using the dialectic method, which involves presenting conflicting viewpoints and debating them to arrive at a better decision. By identifying assumptions and generating counterproposals, the dialectic method helps to expose flaws in proposals and improve decision-making. Devil's advocacy involves deliberately taking an opposing viewpoint to challenge a proposal, which is similar to the counterproposal generated in the dialectic method, but devil's advocacy does not involve structured debate. The diagnostic process involves gathering and analyzing data to identify problems and potential solutions, which is not evident in this scenario. Mediation and negotiation involve working with parties to resolve conflicts and reach an agreement, which is not relevant to this decision-making process.

Laura Is Head of ABC Systems