Case Analysis of 3M Optical Systems

In deciding how to handle the authorization for expenditure, Wong should fund it within his own unit by outsourcing. Restructuring the project so it can be done within the unit, without seeking approval through either formal or information systems, is the best option. There is somewhat of an idea and plan here, and much time and money has already been spent to have the proposal be completely rejected. Postponing the project is not an option as competitors will most likely have the market saturated in a few years anyway. And taking the proposal to a senior-level mentor is going too far and would probably jeopardize Wong’s position in the company. Wong was concerned that if OS moved back to only generating a profit with its ongoing auto components sales, it would eventually go out of business. But if the new project worked, along with future ideas for other major projects, the unit would not fold … 3M wouldn’t let it.

The OS unit needs to immediately accomplish several thi...