Case Study Louise Simms, newly graduated with a master of business administratio
ID: 3471670 • Letter: C
Question
Case Study
Louise Simms, newly graduated with a master of business administration (MBA) degree, was hired by a prestigious multinational firm based in the United States. With minimal training, she was sent to join a company partner to negotiate with a high- ranking Middle Eastern government official. The partner informed Simms that he would introduce her to the government contact and then leave her to “get the job done.” Her assignment was to “do whatever it takes to win the contract: it’s worth millions to us.” The contract would enable Simms’ firm to select and manage technology companies that would install a multimillion-dollar computer system for that government. While in the country, Simms was told by the official that Simms’ firm had “an excellent chance of getting the contract” if the official’s nephew, who owned and operated a computer company in that country, could be assured “a good piece of the action.” On two different occasions, while discussing details, the official attempted unwelcome advances toward Simms. He backed off both times when he observed her subtle negative responses. Simms was told that “the deal” would remain a confidential matter and the official closed by saying, “That’s how we do business here; take it or leave it.” Simms was frustrated about the terms of the deal and about the advances toward her. She called her superior in Chicago and urged him not to accept these conditions because of the questionable arrangements and also because of the disrespect shown toward her, which she said reflected on the company as well. Simms’ supervisor responded, “Take the deal! And don’t let your emotions get involved. You’re in another culture. Go with the flow. Accept the offer and get the contract groundwork started. Use your best judgment on how to handle the details.” Simms couldn’t sleep that night. She now had doubts about her supervisor’s and the government administrator’s ethics. She felt that she had conflicting priorities. This was her first job and a significant opportunity. At the same time, she had to live with herself.
Put yourself in Louise’s situation. Identify your ethical decisionmaking style.
1. Are you primarily an idealist, pragmatist, altruist, or individualist?
2. What are some of your blind spots?
3. Consider the three questions regarding a “defining moment” at the beginning of the chapter: “Who am I?” “Who are we?” “Who is the company?”
4. Describe the ethical principles you usually follow in your life: utilitarianism, rights, justice, universalism, ethical virtue
5. What is your moral responsibility to yourself, your family and friends, your colleagues and work team, and to the company?
6. What is your decision?
Explanation / Answer
1) Primarly I am an individualist.
2) There are no blind spots for me based on the case, because most of the deals are fixed in the world with some unfavoured situations or with some unethical work . Here Unfavourable advances are awaiting for Louise.
3) Its a self analysis question to ask on one ownself that who am i , what for i am here and who is company or company is related to me. These basically are the steps of thinking that one should follow when blind spots created.
4) Basically being an individualists I have my own virtue of ethics which i tried to follow for my self satisfaction. Here in this case One thing has to choose that either deal or self respect.
5) I dont moves or proceed further with anybody in any type of clashes and like to live a peaceful life. If understanding goes well its ok or else to choose some other path is the wayout for me.
6) Decision in this case depends on the discussions with those officials , if they agreed to give contract in any other unethical ways which will not affect me directly , then deal may be final or else i have to loose the deal. Those officials have asked for some unfavourable advances, but if i can offer some other something else related to price etc which will not affect me directly then its ok.