Final answer:
Rules of thumb are broad, non-explicit guidelines that assist managers in decision-making. Unlike detailed explicit rules in official documents, they allow for flexibility in complex problem-solving and adapting to new challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject in question refers to rules of thumb, which are broad guidelines that aid managers at every level in making decisions about recurring situations or functions. These are general principles or heuristics that provide a starting point for decision-making but may not be precise in every instance.
They contrast with explicit, detailed rules that organizations like colleges and universities may have codified in official documents, such as a Student Handbook. Over time, as new challenges emerge, such as cyberbullying or identity theft, organizations may need to adapt their explicit rules to cover these issues.
Rules of thumb are particularly useful in complex problem-solving. They allow managers to process abstract information, anticipate unforeseen events, and potentially make sacrifices for the greater good. These practical guidelines often inform the creation of new programs and policies because they can be applied flexibly in various situations, unlike rigid, explicit rules that might not account for every unique circumstance.