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The primary subject matter of this case relates to the decision-making process within small businesses and the various factors effecting those decisions. Secondary issues related to the case include accounting and economics. The case has a difficulty level of three, appropriate for junior level management courses, such as Principles of Management. The case is designed to be taught in one class hour and is expected to require two hours of outside preparation by students. Included is a student worksheet to assist them in making the best decision. Johnny and Marie Hastings own a screen-printing business that is very successful. The company owns various machines that are vital to its success. The most important machine, the automatic press, is developing reliability concerns that are associated with age. Johnny and Marie are contemplating three options regarding this machine: 1) keeping the current automatic press; 2) outsourcing the production to another company; or 3) buying a new press. The cost effectiveness and efficiency of the options begs the question: is no upgrade a downgrade?