Zero Sum Games and Management

Last night I mentioned "zero sum games" (if I win 1, you lose 1, so +1 + -1 = 0).  A basic tenet of negotiation theory is to get away from zero sum situations and try to build win-win situations (one of you mentioned those last night), even though that is not alway possible.  Here is one discussion of  zero sum / win-win in terms of empowerment:

Empowerment is not a Zero Sum Game
The opening paragraph says:

 

Empowerment is not a zero sum game where management or employees, win or lose. When implemented correctly employee empowerment is a collaboration

, where both parties benefit. This is something the most efficient and effective organizations understand. This is something perennially rated ‘best companies' understand.

See the rest of the article at:

http://www.articlesbase.com/human-resources-articles/empowerment-is-not-a-zero-sum-game-3297626.html

We will continue the discussion of negotiation etc. in two week's time.

John