Donna K. Fisher, Steven T. Sonka and Randall E. Westgren
This paper reports on an intervention for improving the strategic decision making and strategic planning in a specific quasi-public organization: the Illinois Soybean Program…
Abstract
This paper reports on an intervention for improving the strategic decision making and strategic planning in a specific quasi-public organization: the Illinois Soybean Program Operating Board and on how decision support systems can alter perceptions of the decision making environment, which in turn affect strategic planning. The study hypothesis is that if the use of a sophisticated 3-D modeling tool, the Protein Consumption Dynamics (PCD) model, broadens perspectives to include a more global and long-term outlook, then the quality of planning should be enhanced. Before and after questionnaires are used to capture the changes in 121 soy industry decision- makers' perceptions of the decision making environment. The perceptions of soybean industry decision makers change to reflect more long-term thinking about the industry, indicating that the PCD model's visualized presentation of complex information did influence strategic behavior.
Rajshree Agarwal and Steven Sonka
In this chapter, the authors assert that traditional advanced degree programs underserve young scientists, and train them primarily for a career in academia pursuing basic…
Abstract
In this chapter, the authors assert that traditional advanced degree programs underserve young scientists, and train them primarily for a career in academia pursuing basic research. Data drawn from the Scientists and Engineers Statistical Data System (SESTAT) from 1996 to 2006 show that only one fourth of all scientists are engaged in basic academic research. The majority of young scientists pursue alternative career paths in applied and in industrial research settings. Several such career options are highlighted, and the conclusion is drawn that graduate education should be broadened to provide students with complementary business and entrepreneurship knowledge, skills and attitudes required for success in each option. Four examples of innovative programs that address this need at the University of Illinois are discussed, including a Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Management (CEM) for Life Scientists, a Certificate in Business Administration (CIB) for Nonbusiness Majors, the Illinois Professional Science Master's (PSM), and various nondegree, experiential opportunities.
Strategic group theory has two distinct aspects. The first is a resemblance among firms grounded in a common pattern of investment; the second is a mutual dependence among firms…
Abstract
Strategic group theory has two distinct aspects. The first is a resemblance among firms grounded in a common pattern of investment; the second is a mutual dependence among firms in the strategic group. Each aspect is analyzed to develop implications for research generally and multi-level research particularly.