Category: Management

➤ How does prescriptive analytics differ from descriptive and predictive analytics?
Descriptive analytics summarizes past data to explain what happened. Predictive analytics forecasts likely future events. Prescriptive analytics goes further by recommending actions and optimizing outcomes under constraints. It connects insights to operational decisions and provides concrete options rather than just reports or forecasts.

At which organisation would you like to be a facility manager: a large municipality, an internationally operating caterer, or a large hotel? Give reasons behind your choice.

At what probability would you pay millions to mitigate a supply chain risk? Does it depend on the risk categorydriver? What other factors are involved in your decision?

➤ How can employers create legally defensible performance appraisals—behavior-based or results-based?
Use job analysis to define essential tasks, then translate them into observable behaviors and measurable results. Adopt clear rating scales, SMART goals, and objective metrics like sales, error rates, or cycle time. Train managers on documentation, calibration, and consistent application. Keep records of coaching, performance improvement plans, and measurable outcomes.

➤ How does disruptive innovation differ from sustaining innovation?
Sustaining innovation improves performance of existing products for current customers through incremental upgrades or features. Disruptive innovation targets overlooked segments or new users with a different value proposition, often sacrificing near-term performance to gain adoption. The two differ by target market, performance trajectory, and impact on incumbents’ business models.