Multiple choice

Which of the following is the function performed by a gatekeeper in a company's decision making unit?

  1. Supply information to guide evaluation of alternatives.

  2. Select a supplier and implement the procedures for securing the goods and services.

  3. Choose which goods and services will actually be bought.

  4. Control the information that all the members of the decision making unit will review.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Gatekeepers control information flow within a decision-making unit, filtering what information reaches other members. They might be secretaries, technical staff, or purchasing agents who screen vendors, limit access, or manage documentation. This differs from influencers (who provide guidance), buyers (who handle transactions), or deciders (who make final choices). Gatekeepers are the information bottleneck.

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