SOUNDING BOARD is an outlet for opinions on good and crazy things going on at home (wherever I may be). All are welcome. You are not expected to bring anything except your common sense & sense of humor.
'If the automobile had followed the same development cycle as the computer, a Rolls-Royce would today cost $100, get one million miles to the gallon, and explode once a year, killing everyone inside.'
-Robert X. Cringely (from geek wisdom)
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, October 26, 2002
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Centropico: tips for google-searching students
Here's a post for students searching for "Centropico" through google. I realized there are quite a number searching for it. I would, of course, prefer you guys doing your own analysis without *first* looking into analysis posted on the web. This is my favorite case of all the Harvard Kennedy School of Government cases. Some faculty members really have knack for these things... very insightful though. Anyway, here's a tip:
Centropico is a country somewhere in Southeast Asia (nope, not Latin America). The setting was ripe for a crisis-ridden reform (as opposed to a politics-as-usual one) immediately after a bloodless revolution. This difference is critical as you will have to crack your head on how to approach the challenging issues. Given that the situation demands *not* a politics-as-usual reform, be careful not to recommend incremental measures. You don't have timing flexibility. This is one situation wherein the political environment heavily influences the setting. Be bold and at the same time, bear in mind that in dealing with Centropico's problems, timing is everything. Maximize support and minimize resistance. How? Know your potential allies. The opposition wields tremendous influence in high-level political decision making. Is there room for coalition-building to neutralize this tremendous influence?
You gotta have an idea as to what can Donna's Lawrence's client do NOW, immediately. But!... these are only relevant insofar as you can pass the first phase. Be pragmatic. Donna's crucial handle in the situation is *only* one person - and you know very well who that is. Take it from there. Good luck.
posted by Allan at 1:45 AM (GMT+8)
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