Just had a weird interaction with a colleague

Colleague: We need to make Project X our number one priority. I have heard many people on Tracy's team talk about how great it is.
Me: I actually attended a workshop about it last weekend. Good idea, but not a top priority.
Colleague: I've heard people talking about it. It will save lots of money.
Me: Lots? How much is lots? I don't think it's that much.
Colleague: It's a lot.
Me: How much though?
Colleague: A lot. I've heard people talking.
Me: But how much?
Colleague: A lot. Trust me.
Me: How much is a lot though?
Colleague: I've heard people talking! Why don't you trust me?
Me: I would need an estimate. Let's call Tracy.
Colleague: I don't like your attitude. It will save a lot and I refuse to believe otherwise.
Me: *calls Tracy* Tracy how much would Project X save?
Tracy: Not a ton, maybe two grand? Not nearly as much as Project Y.
Colleague: I guess we just think different opinions. I still think we should pursue it. I don't believe Tracy.

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

SteelHands · 61-69, M

You can use dialogue to stave off disputes by using "test flight process" or "synergistic approach"

Making the point that the Project X is a good, easy, short term process to conserve resources or personnel for assignments to project Y is another strategy.

Obstinate or pessimistic people can be placed in a "primary oversight and deployment team" which diffuses their ability to infect project Y with counterproductive personnel.

Leadership never puts up barricades to a competing leader's ill conceived predictable failure.

KneAuxBody

@SteelHands fabulous last sentence!!!