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Background Note
| HBS Case Collection
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1995
(Revised from original 1993 version)
Orientation to the Subarctic Survival Situation
by
Linda A. Hill
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Abstract
An orientation to the "Subartic Survival Situation" (designed by and available from Human Synergistics, Inc., Plymouth, MI, tel. 313-459-1030), an experiental exercise that gives students an opportunity to learn about their personal influence style and their effectiveness as a team leader or member. As a simulation, the exercise provides conditions analogous to those managers face every day: They must make critical decisions from incomplete and often ambiguous information and must live with imperfect solutions; the problem is urgent and they have to cope with the stresses and emotions associated with working under pressure; they will have to work with others to solve a common problem (in this regard, this exercise perhaps simulates most closely a newly instituted cross-functional task force). Outlines the rationale for the exercise and gives a brief overview of how the simulation will unfold.
Keywords: Leadership Style;
Performance Effectiveness;
Performance Evaluation;
Decisions;
Power and Influence;
Groups and Teams;
Decision Choices and Conditions;