The strategic variations trap

Abstract

Three great scholars, one each from the United States, France and Israel, came to the same conclusion at the same time—the world would soon come to an end by flood. A great conference was scheduled where it was concluded that the world would indeed be inundated abruptly in 30 days. After the meeting the three great scholars met for drinks and dinner. While sipping brandy after dinner, the American asked the Israeli what he was going to do during the last 30 days. The Israeli said he planned to make his peace with God. The French scientist, asked the same question, said he was going to take all of his money out of the bank and throw a 30‐day party, enjoying wine, women and song. Then they asked the American what he was going to do. He replied that he was going to spend his time learning to live under water. This story illustrates two points about planning:

Citation

Smatt, E.J. (1979), "The strategic variations trap", Planning Review, Vol. 7 No. 5, pp. 31-36. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb053890