Beth West is in the midst of hiring staff for the summer and would very much like to rehire Jennifer Smith who has worked for Clean Pools the past five summers. West fears that the wage scale within which she must work may discourage Smith from accepting the job. Although the negotiation can focus exclusively on the wage rate for lifeguarding, there are more fruitful areas of discussion that can be of benefit to both parties: extra lifeguarding hours, swim instruction, and extended work season. The case illustrates the opportunities afforded by information sharing and the relaxation of constraints. See also UV3994, which presents Jennifer Smith's perspective.

Jennifer Smith has worked the past five summers for Clean Pools and would like to do so again this summer. Unfortunately, the anticipated compensation does not meet her needs, but she will be meeting with Beth West, Clean Pools' head pool supervisor, to discuss the matter. Although the negotiation can focus exclusively on the wage rate for lifeguarding, there are more fruitful areas of discussion that can be of benefit to both parties-extra lifeguarding hours, swim instruction, and extended work season. The case illustrates the opportunities afforded by information sharing and the relaxation of constraints. See also UV3859, which presents Beth West's perspective.