Discussion Question
Part I: "High cohesiveness in a group leads to higher group
Productivity."  Do you agree or disagree? Explain and use research to
support your position.  Be sure to cite and reference any outside
sources.

Part II:  If group decisions consistently achieve better quality
outcomes than those achieved by individuals, how did the phrase "a
camel is a horse designed by a committee" becomes so popular and
ingrained in many cultures?  (Or what do you think it means).  Think
critically and be creative with your answer.


Discussion Question
 
Consider the following Case Study: The organization is a real estate
agent?s office in a small town. Real estate agents act as
intermediaries in property transactions on a commission basis. The
agency deals with domestic property only. Commissions range from 1% to
1.5% of selling price. Property prices typically range from $40,000 to
$250,000. Most transactions are in the $40,000 to $100,000 range. The
staff undertakes a variety of tasks including: (a) making appointments
for prospective purchasers to view properties. It is not unusual for
purchasers to ask to see ten or more different properties, (b)
receiving telephone and personal inquiries from prospective
purchasers, (c) dispatching sales literature, (d) accompanying
prospective purchasers when viewing properties, (e) Carrying out
follow-up inquiries to obtain feedback from prospective purchasers who
have viewed properties, (f) carrying out periodic ?stay-in-touch?
calls to sellers, (g) acting as intermediaries in negotiations between
buyers and sellers. Staff has authority to accept offers and to
facilitate subsequent negotiations, and (h) participating in sales
meetings.

The office manager has sole responsibility for valuing properties and
producing sales literature. The state of the market is ambiguous. Some
properties, moderately priced ones especially, sell quickly.
Approximately 60% of listings have been on the market for about six
months, 20% for over a year. Staff have to cope with frustrated
clients saying, ?Why is my property not selling; what are you doing
about it?? Staff has aggressive sales targets.

1.	Analyze the potential sources of workplace stress.
2.	As a manager, what are the key factors in successfully managing this stress
3.	Use the text and outside research to justify your response.