Scenario A, phase 4

You finally obtained a set of tablets that drivers can take along on their routes. They will use the tablets to record vehicle vibrations and to store the data along with GPS coordinates. This has allowed you to start gathering data for your road-repair plan.

However, you have noticed that the same three drivers keep taking the tablets along the same routes. As a result, your data is not very diverse. You discover that the morning shift team likes to use the tablets to participate in multiplayer games during their breaks, so they take off with the tablets before anyone else even clocks in. The text message you received about the fridge adds to your concerns about the drivers’ ability to share and self-organize.

You have asked around and are keen to help, but the tablets are simply not available. You can’t afford any more tablets, and you would prefer not having to implement an equipment-booking system since it could discourage volunteers.

Hands-on option, basic stage

Read about the tragedy of the commons (independent research) and reflect, in writing, on how this is related to the problem with the tablets as well as the state of the breakroom fridge. Try to draft some solutions that will solve the problem without antagonizing anyone.

Conceptual option, basic stage

Read about the airport problem (independent research) and use the Shapley value to calculate the costs for an example of your own. (Do not use the values in Wikipedia or on any other website; pick your own.)

In-depth stage for both options

Read about Nash equilibrium (independent research) and its applications in a domain of your choice (finance, healthcare, traffic, etc.). Document your findings in writing, calculations, or code.