If class time allows, it is interesting for students to answer questions following the first part before reading further, and then to answer questions following the second part before reading further. This case will be a helpful reference in later chapters when you point out the potentially constructive role of mechanistic systems used properly.

PART I:

1. What are the goals at Acme? At Omega?

2. What impact do top mangers have on these goals? Discuss.

3. Are these goals to be achieved with different strategies? Describe.

PART II: 

Which firm do you think will produce the best results? Why?

PART III:

1. Which organization was more effective at developing the prototype and meeting the deadlines? Was its level of effectiveness due to the goals chosen by top management?

2. Predict which organization will get the final contract. Why?

PART IV:

1. How can Acme's success be explained? Did Acme's goals seem more appropriate? Did stakeholder satisfaction play a role?

2. Overall, who was more effective, Acme or Omega? Explain.