Application to a Case StudyApplication to a Case Study
Application to a Case Study: Paradyne Computers To illustrate the use of this problem-solving method, let’s analyze a case study. In 1980, Paradyne, a computer company, bid to supply the Social Security Administration (SSA) with new computer systems. We’ll look at the factual issues fi rst. The request for proposals clearly specifi ed that only existing systems would be considered. Paradyne did not have any such system running and had never tested the operating system on the product they actually proposed to sell to the SSA. The employment of a former SSA worker by Paradyne to help lobby SSA for the contract is also clear. In this case, the factual issues do not appear particularly controversial.
The conceptual issues involve whether bidding to provide an off-the-shelf prod- uct when the actual product is only in the planning stages is lying or is an accepta- ble business practice. Is placing a Paradyne label over the real manufacturer’s label deceptive? Does lobbying your former employer on behalf of your current employer constitute a confl ict of interest? These questions will certainly generate discussion. Indeed, Paradyne asserted that it had done nothing wrong and was simply engaging in common business practices. The issue of the confl ict of interest is so hard to decide that laws have been enacted making it illegal for workers who have left gov- ernment employ to lobby their former employers for specifi ed periods of time.