Case Study (Week 10) - Answers

29-Nov-12

BE2601 Instructors: Hesan Quazi (coordinator), Adeline Tay and Alan Goh, S1 AY2012-13

Case Study
The Wallingford Bowling Center
Source: Bateman & Snell, page 112 to 113

Question
1. Apply the decision-making process described in the chapter to this case. What is the major problem facing Wallingford? List five specific alternative solutions that could be implemented to solve that major problem 2. As general manager of this company, how could you utilize and manage the group decision-making process and technique to improve company profits? Which employees would you include in the group?

Case Study
1. What is the major problem facing Wallingford? List five specific alternative solutions that could be implemented to solve that major problem Suggested response Wallingford is facing heavy fixed cost operations and it is finding ways to enhance its profitability. Some of the alternative solutions could be as follows
Increase the usage of its bowling lanes by doing more promotion and advertising so that more people will come to rent the lanes Go to neighboring community to promote bowling games or activities Hold bowling competition to attract the bowlers and visitors Promote bowling games to the younger generation (Gen Y) by providing bowling clinics Expand the bar and restaurant by offering more menu choices to cater to a wider range of visitors and diners.
29-Nov-12

BE 2601: Hesan Quazi (coordinator), Adeline Tay and Alan Goh, S1 AY2012-13

Case Study
2. As general manager of this company, how could you utilize and manage the group decision-making process and technique to improve company profits? Which employees would you include in the group?
Answer Apply Group decision-making technique such as:
Brainstorming and/or Nominal Group Technique

Employees to be included in the group is as follows:

The Shareholders of the company (i.e. the 12 life long friends) General Manager and Controller

Employee representatives such as young generation employees, people living in the neighborhood and the bowlers.
29-Nov-12

BE 2601: Hesan Quazi (coordinator), Adeline Tay and Alan Goh, S1 AY2012-13

Points to remember
All the suggestions may not be feasible to implement at once
It may be good to separate the options as
Short-term & Long-term Always consider the financial implications Consider the possible impacts on other stakeholders (when the suggestions are implemented)

29-Nov-12

BE 2601 Hesan Quazi (coordinator), Adeline Tay, and Alan Goh, S1 AY2012