Real-Life Decision Making -- Solution
You lower the estimate, despite the problems it might cause for you.
You have a teenage daughter, and the thought of having a community center and recreation area where she can hang out without getting into trouble is appealing. After careful consideration, you take another look at the estimate you have worked up. By looking hard, you can see there are a few places where you can cut costs.
You rework the estimate, making it lower, and submit the bid to the project manager. A few days later, he calls to tell you your company has won the bid. Within a few hours, a fax comes in with the acceptance of bid, and the amount.
Today, your boss calls you into his office. He asks why you bid so low on the project. You explain to him that the total budget for the project was lower than your original bid. Then you tell him how much you believe in the project, and how wonderful you think it will be for the community.
Your boss listens. When you are finished talking, he tells you he thinks the project would benefit the community also. He has a teenager, too. Unfortunately, his company cannot afford to lose the profits that you cut away with the lower bid. He fires you.
Because you did not follow the policies and guidelines that your company adheres to, you have lost your job.
"Ethical behavior is a big issue in this business," says Art Lamson. He is a cost estimator. "And ethical behavior is always the right default. Companies and organizations have policies to protect all involved. Those policies should be followed closely."