MGMT530 – Conference Decision
Week 1 Case Analysis Template

1) Define the decision problem?
As indicated by the scenario it seems that the decision problem is a matter if the accounting systems annual conference that is previously scheduled to occur on September 13-16,2005 should be canceled, due to the fact Hurricane Katrina has occurred and demolished building and homes leaving them in ruin in the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. The primary issue thus becomes does the board or committee moves the conference to a future date or have conference at another location that would thus incur higher costs for hotel for patrons of the conference in addition to it would be a price increase for flights that were already scheduled to New Orleans.

2) What is the general nature of the problem?
The issue is categorized as a non-program problem due to the fact that it is a natural disaster that is not able to be controlled. Since it is not able to be controlled areas no forecasting as to the extent of damage nor the range of geographic devastation that will occur to the area or surrounding cities.

3) What event triggered the situation?
Hurricane Katrina has laid ruin to the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. Thus patrons are not able to stay in the allocated hotel for the conference to be held.

4) What are the imposed constraints on the situation?

The constraints on the particular situation are the fact that 200 and participants have already prepaid for the conference. These fees include the registration fee, hotel stay and any items that go along with the package fees. If the location is moved to another city there will be an increase in cost. The question then becomes who is to pay the difference between their pre-paid and what next location/venue/hotel will cost. In addition, who will pay any flight or transportation differentiation cost for these