Testing Bowman's Managerial Coefficient Theory Using a Competitive Gaming Environment

In this paper Bowman's managerial coefficient theory is evaluated in a competitive environment, the Executive Game. The literature on Bowman's theory is surveyed and a review is made to justify using games to test decision theories. The experimental data reveal that decision rules fit the data well. Erratic and biased decision making is found to be a linear function of rank. Learning consistent with oligopolistic theory is found to occur. The applicability of Bowman's theory in competitive environment is established and the theory extended.