A Structured Framework For Applying Conceptual Models To Problem Analyses: Hardening Up

Abstract

This paper extends a well known approach to analyzing interpersonal problems. It outlines a rigorous, systematic, “hard” framework for solving such problems. The framework emphasizes the usefulness of the conceptual model. The objectives are to improve the quality and consistency of managers’ decisions and to facilitate the process of grading students’ case and exercise analyses. The framework might be useful to those who are concerned that behavioral science is too “soft” for explaining, prescribing, and predicting management activities.