1.Relate AUM’s seven predictors of anxiety and uncertainty to the case. Which predictors seem to be the greatest contributors to the problem at Granovetter Church? How might Gudykunst advise both Mark and Yushiko so they can engage in more mindful communication?
- To what extent did Mark and Yushiko recognize each other’s face needs during the conflict? What conflict strategies did they use? Were the strategies consistent with the predictions of face negotiation theory?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: a. Controllable costs.
Explanation:
Performance evaluations are best done using controllable costs because they allow managers to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of individuals or departments based on factors within their control. Controllable costs refer to expenses that a manager or department has direct influence over, such as labor costs, supply costs, and operational expenses within their scope of responsibility.
Evaluating performance based on controllable costs ensures fairness and accountability. If an employee or department is assessed on factors they cannot influence (such as uncontrollable expenses like rent, taxes, or depreciation), the evaluation would be unfair and demotivating. Controllable costs empower managers and employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, optimize resources, and contribute to overall organizational success.
For instance, in a retail store, a store manager can control staffing levels, inventory orders, and promotional expenses but cannot control rent or corporate-wide marketing costs. Evaluating the manager based on the controllable costs they oversee ensures a meaningful assessment of their decision-making and cost management skills.
Using controllable costs in performance evaluations also aligns with the principles of responsibility accounting, where managers are held accountable only for the financial results they can influence. This approach encourages strategic decision-making, cost reduction initiatives, and process improvements, ultimately leading to increased efficiency and profitability for the organization.
In contrast, other options, such as contribution percentages or departmental contributions to overhead, may not accurately reflect an individual’s performance, as they are influenced by external factors. Uncontrollable expenses and direct costs may also not be the best metrics for performance evaluations, as they do not always align with an individual or department’s actual influence on cost management.
Thus, controllable costs provide the most accurate and fair basis for evaluating performance in an organization.
Now, I’ll generate an image related to performance evaluation and cost control.
I have generated an image depicting a professional business setting where a manager is reviewing performance evaluation charts and graphs with an employee. Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!
