Subject category:
Case Method and Specialist Management Disciplines
Published by:
Harvard Business Publishing
Version: 22 January 2020
Revision date: 02-Mar-2020
Length: 4 pages
Data source: Field research
Abstract
The Behavioural Insights Team case introduces students to the concept of choice architecture and the value of experimental methods (sometimes called A/B testing) within organizational contexts. The exercise provides an opportunity for students to apply these principles to solve a managerial problem - increasing tax compliance rates among delinquent taxpayers. Students are asked to rewrite the letter that the UK tax department (HMRC) sends to delinquent taxpayers; this exercise is based on a successful behavioral field experiment run by the UK government.
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 2010-2012.Geographical setting
Region:
Europe
Country:
United Kingdom
Featured company
Behavioural Insights Team
Industry:
Public administration
Featured protagonists
- David Halpern (male)
- Owain Service (male)
About
Abstract
The Behavioural Insights Team case introduces students to the concept of choice architecture and the value of experimental methods (sometimes called A/B testing) within organizational contexts. The exercise provides an opportunity for students to apply these principles to solve a managerial problem - increasing tax compliance rates among delinquent taxpayers. Students are asked to rewrite the letter that the UK tax department (HMRC) sends to delinquent taxpayers; this exercise is based on a successful behavioral field experiment run by the UK government.
Settings
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 2010-2012.Geographical setting
Region:
Europe
Country:
United Kingdom
Featured company
Behavioural Insights Team
Industry:
Public administration
Featured protagonists
- David Halpern (male)
- Owain Service (male)