Module 1: Milk, Eggs & Bread

milk eggs bread.

Instructions

Watch the Multimedia for Module.  Read the Scenario Update, Key Issues and Possible Discussion Topics.

Based on the information provided in this module, participate in the discussion concerning the issues raised.

In your group, identify what actions should be taken, and any additional requirements, critical issues, decisions, and/or questions that should be addressed at this time.               

Multimedia for Module

12pm, Tuesday (November 12)

Multimedia update that summarizes the key events occurring this day

Scenario Update

Tuesday, 2pm (11/12/2013)

A disorganized area of low pressure has produced unusually low temperatures across the eastern half of the United States.

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect in Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Allegany, Monroe, and Livingston counties, with the rest of central New York under a Winter Storm Watch.   Most of Erie County, including Amherst and Buffalo, have only had a couple inches of snow thus far.

In preparation for the snowstorm, the public is stocking up on basic provisions including milk, eggs and bread.  At a local Wegmans, WGRZ reported basic provisions are “flying off the shelves” and that “the shelves are almost empty.”

A UB Football home game is scheduled for tonight.

•What are the Key Issues and Questions?

•What are some of the uncertainties?

•What actions are taken?

Key Issues

  1. Uncertainty over possibly large snow storm approaching Western NY
  2. Forecasts predict a “bad storm”
  3. No significant snow expected on ground until tomorrow
  4. When will a decision have to be made regarding UB’s status?
  5. How to balance the pros and cons of cancelling UB activities
  6. What is the best timing for a decision?
  7. How to best communicate decisions?

Possible Discussion Topics

  1. What does our team need from UB leadership and other parts of the University to do their jobs?,?
  2. What are the uncertainties and issues that UB leadership are dealing with?
  3. According to UB’s plans for snow emergencies/inclement weather, what actions should be taken now by UB leadership?
  4. Given the weather predictions thus far, what do UB policies state should happen (activities cancelled, delayed, etc.)?
  5. Who has the authority to make these decisions?
  6. How should  this information be communicated to staff, faculty, and students?  
  7. Which other partners or organizations must be notified of UB’s snow-related decision?
  8. Where is our team's storm-related information coming from? How is it being received and how should it then be shared, according to our team's policies?
Next Module (1a: Let it Snow)