This is an example of a commonly used Dilemma webcue.

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1. Please tell us something about yourself.

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main job function
department/division
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2. What do you consider are the key strategic issues facing your organization?

Immediately?
In the next decade?

Below we would like to ask you to provide us with some examples of challenges/dilemmas you have experienced or are likely to experience in your workplace. Your input shall be used to select the most recurring challenges/dilemmas the organization is facing, for our discussions in the upcoming session.

First, an explanation ….  What is a dilemma?

We define a dilemma as: ‘’two propositions in apparent conflict’’. In other words a dilemma describes a situation whereby one has to choose between two good or desirable options. E.g. On the one hand we need flexibility whilst on the other hand we also need consistency. So a dilemma describes the tension that is created due to conflicting demands.

What is not a dilemma? Here are some examples:

  • A description of a current and ideal state: ‘’We have good communication tools but we need to use them better’’
  • An either-or option: ‘’Should we start hiring new employees now or wait till next year’’
  • A complaint: ‘’We make good strategic plans but due to lack of leadership we are not able to follow them through’’

How to formulate a dilemma?

  • Describe the dilemma by using the words: “on the one hand whilst/and on the other hand…’’
  • Describe positive elements of both sides of the dilemma (e.g. individual versus group; objective versus subjective; logic versus creativity; analytical versus intuitive; formal versus informal; rules versus exceptions etc)

Examples of Dilemmas:

Example 1
On the one hand Whilst on the other hand
We need make decisions ourselves quickly
We need to consult more widely across the organization when making decisions
Example 2
On the one hand Whilst on the other hand
We need to move people around to share knowledge and best practices across the organization We need to keep people where they are to exploit existing relationships and local contacts

Example 3
On the one hand Whilst on the other hand
We need to apply positive discrimination in recruitment to increase diversity We need to maintain equal career opportunities and job security for existing employees

Now, please describe a key dilemma deriving from the tensions faced by the difficult choices faced by the senior management of your organization.

Please describe your key issues in this dual column format:
You might find this difficult, but we have a reason for asking you to do this which will be made clear at the workshop.

 

On the one hand Whilst on the other hand
Issue 1:

Issue 1:

Issue 2:

Issue 2:

Issue 3:

Issue 3:

 


Thank you for taking the time to respond. We look forward to seeing you during the course and to our further discussions.

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