Deciding When and How to Communicate
Key Issues. This Scenario directs attention to two analytic tools that can help you focus on communication issues and craft appropriate responses: the communication model and communication networks.

Begin by applying the communication model, taking each element in turn and identifying corresponding aspects of the situation described in the Scenario. Instead of talking generally about the communication problems Pekka faces, refer to specific elements of the model (sender, receivers, media, etc.) to unpack the situation and bring to the surface the various choices Pekka faces. Of particular significance are the goals and the media because Pekka appears to have multiple goals and uses multiple communication media. Describe how appropriate each medium of communication is in relation to the goals Pekka is pursuing.

A second concept of special relevance concerns communication networks within organizations. Focus on what kind of network or networks Pekka uses, why he does so, and whether his choices help him reach his goal. In thinking about the communication networks available to him, consider the ways in which such networks reflect the size, goals, and culture of the organization.

Opportunities for Assignments.

1. For individuals: write one or more of Pekka's e-mails.
2. For individuals: prepare a written agenda for the "war conference."
3. For teams: analyze the situation and guide class discussion, using the Questions for Discussion but ranging beyond these to show how key concepts of the chapter apply to the situation Pekka faces.

Opportunities for Role Playing.

1. For pairs of students: role play the face-to-face meeting Pekka has with each of the two persons working in the London office.
   
   
2. For pairs of students: role play the telephone calls Pekka substitutes for face-to-face meetings.
   
   These two situations offer excellent opportunities for observations: of how different pairs of students handle differently either the in-person or telephone meetings and of how the two media (in-person and mediated) differ.
   
   
3. For a large group: role play the "war conference." Observers can analyze the communications aspects of the conference as it proceeds and make a critique afterwards. Here again, the communication model can be applied to highlight how and why communication works.