Question: (1) In the basic assignment, you are to pick out what YOU think are the KEY issues and make recommendations, applying class theory on the way. That's it. Some of the key issues might arise in the questions at the end of the case, but I can't guaranty that.

(2) The grading criteria serve to give you a clear understanding of how I will evaluate the cases.

(3) Although this might seem ambiguous, please understand that after 25 years of being in the business world, I can assure you that your boss will not say "Is this true or false" or "Should I do A,B,C,D, or All of the Above?" So...I believe that a key to your professional success will lie in your ability to pick out the KEY issues (there are many issues that are less important...so choosing the critical one(s) will be very important) and address them with logical recommendations that answer the "why" (and not just "I think/feel").

I know that doing this well will require time and effort, but believe me - this experiential exercise creates A LOT of work for me as I do read each and every one- but I feel obliged to do this, as it might help you develop as a professional, and isn't that what we are supposed to be dong here?

Case Grading Criteria

Identification of Key Issues: Realizing that there are numerous issues, choose those which are the most critical to the future success of the organization at the time of the case. These key issues may arise from any part of the organization, thus they need not be limited to people, i.e. systems and procedures may be of the utmost importance at any one time. (For term projects, updating of the information is recommended)

Application of Theory: Complement your good ideas and common sense with the ‘tools' of this class, i.e. class/text theory, (past FIU, the ‘tools' of your profession will be developed as you develop as a professional). By adding this perspective to your work, both for class AND past FIU, it will be stronger in its content, and ultimately, more convincing to your reader.

Recommendations: Past FIU, the quality of your recommendations will be a critical factor in your success. Recommendations should, if possible, include alternatives so as to increase objectivity. Also, there should be reasoning that "sells" your idea, both in theory and implementation, i.e. the "why, who, how, when, etc." of your idea.

Presentation: Organizing and delivering your ideas in a succinct and logical manner is vital to the success of your work, for if the  presentation is poor, your good ideas could get lost. Grammar and syntax is vital, for a reader can get distracted to the point of losing the message, and your credibility can be damaged by the inability to write effectively, i.e. typos can leave a lasting impression. Proofreading by a third party is highly recommended.