This IT pilot fish's cubicle is located near a woodshop that's in serious need of an upgrade — and the process turns out to be very familiar.

"Production had increased, and the extra sawdust was a problem," says fish. "They needed a sawdust-sucking machine.

"Barney, the shop manager, took a very good look at the space and the available sawdust extractors. He picked one that was a good price, in stock, the right size and had easy cleanout and simple ducting. Since it went outside, he also specified the concrete pad to mount it on."

But when the design specifications hit the Purchasing office, some helpful soul crosses off the model that fish has specified. Instead, the specs are sent out to multiple vendors for competitive bidding — and no one tells Barney.

To read this article in full, please click here