Correct Answer: Decisions should be based on data and scientific analysis.

Solution : The correct answer is (b) Decisions should be based on data and scientific analysis.

Decisions should be based on data and scientific analysis directly aligns with the principle of "Science, not the rule of thumb," which advocates for decisions grounded in data, analysis, and scientific methods rather than arbitrary or subjective approaches.

In summary, the principle of "Science, not the rule of thumb" suggests that decisions within ABC Electronics should be made based on data and scientific analysis, promoting a logical and evidence-based approach to decision-making.

Correct Answer: Cost-Plus Pricing

Solution : The correct answer is (d) Cost-Plus Pricing. 

ABC Electronics sets its prices based on market demand, competitor pricing, and production costs. Cost-Plus Pricing involves calculating the total cost to produce a product or service and then adding a markup (a certain percentage or amount) to cover desired profit. In this scenario, ABC Electronics considers production costs (the "cost" part of cost-plus pricing), along with market demand and competitor pricing, to determine the appropriate pricing for their electronic products.

Correct Answer: Relationship Building

Solution : The correct answer is (d) Relationship Building.

Relationship Building in personal selling involves the effort to establish and nurture strong, ongoing relationships with customers. In this scenario, ABC Electronics' sales representatives maintain contact with customers even after a sale to ensure their satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of building and maintaining long-term relationships. This approach involves engaging with customers, understanding their needs and concerns, and providing continued support and service to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Building strong relationships with customers is crucial for fostering trust, encouraging repeat business, and generating positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Correct Answer: Patience and effective communication skills

Solution : The correct answer is (c) Patience and effective communication skills.

Patience is crucial for understanding and empathizing with employees, especially in challenging situations. Effective communication skills are essential for conveying expectations, providing feedback, and addressing concerns in a clear and respectful manner.

In summary, a supervisor at XYZ Electronics should possess qualities such as patience and effective communication skills to create a positive work environment, encourage teamwork, and enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.

Correct Answer: Marketing Concept

Solution : The correct answer is  (c) Marketing Concept

The marketing concept focuses on understanding and meeting customers' needs and preferences by analyzing market trends and implementing innovative marketing strategies. It is customer-centric and aims to deliver superior value to customers in order to achieve the organization's goals and objectives.

Correct Answer: By reducing production costs.

Solution : The correct answer is (a) By reducing production costs.

Implementing effective control measures can help XYZ Electronics maintain product quality and meet customer expectations. By closely monitoring and managing various aspects of the production process, they can identify and rectify any issues that might arise. This can lead to improved efficiency and a reduction in production costs over time. This approach ensures that the company's resources are utilized effectively, minimizing waste and maximizing output quality.

Correct Answer: Measurable and specific goals

Solution : The correct answer is (c) Measurable and specific goals

Having measurable and specific goals is crucial for effective planning. Clear objectives provide a basis for making decisions, allocating resources, and evaluating progress. Measurable and specific goals allow the company to track performance and determine whether they are moving in the right direction. This clarity helps in focusing efforts, facilitating communication, and ensuring that everyone in the organization understands what needs to be achieved. 

Correct Answer: Relationship Building

Solution : The correct answer is (d) Relationship Building.

Relationship Building in personal selling involves the effort to establish and nurture strong, ongoing relationships with customers. In this scenario, ABC Electronics' sales representatives maintain contact with customers even after a sale to ensure their satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of building and maintaining long-term relationships. This approach involves engaging with customers, understanding their needs and concerns, and providing continued support and service to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Building strong relationships with customers is crucial for fostering trust, encouraging repeat business, and generating positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Correct Answer: Misunderstandings and reduced productivity

Solution : The correct answer is (c) Misunderstandings and reduced productivity.

Effective communication is vital in any workplace, including XYZ Electronics. When a supervisor lacks proper communication skills, it can lead to misunderstandings among team members, confusion regarding tasks and objectives, and a decrease in overall productivity. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page, understands their roles and responsibilities, and can work efficiently towards common goals. Effective communication is key to achieving coordination, motivation, and avoiding misunderstandings and reduced productivity.

Correct Answer: Evaluating alternatives

Solution : The correct answer is (d) Evaluating alternatives

Before setting objectives and goals, identifying potential risks, or allocating resources, it's essential for XYZ Manufacturing Company to assess and evaluate different alternatives or options for the new line of smart home appliances. This involves considering various factors such as product features, market demand, competitive landscape, and potential challenges and opportunities associated with each alternative. Once the company has a clear understanding of the available options, it can then proceed to set objectives, identify risks, and allocate resources based on the chosen alternative.