Robin Hood We are all familiar with Robin Hood and his band of "merry men." Their creed to "rob the rich and give to the poor" was heroic and honorable during a time when the poor in England were being taxed beyond their means and suffering in squalor.

Nevertheless, Robin Hood's infamy has created a series of problems for his band of 'bandits' as well as himself. "The increasing size of the band was a source of satisfaction for Robin, but also a source of concern" (Thompson & Strickland, 2003).

It is no surprise either, as people are drawn to the honor of helping the poor and taking their own revenge on the Sheriff of Nottingham. Still, Robin Hood's growing concern is valid.

The band of "merry men" worked in the past because it was a 'band' and now that they are growing in numbers, their source of refuge and work: the forest, is suffering. Food is becoming scarce and 'victims' are avoiding the forest.

Part of the strategy the "merry men" would have had, was that of surprise, and as Sun Tzu said in The Art of War: "Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots" (Griffith, 1996). In essence, it is time for Robin Hood to rethink his current strategy as his company expands if he wants to continue 'robbing from the rich, and giving to the poor'.

At the moment, he needs to downsize his band in order to continue with their current mission.
Robin Hood has been offered a new mission in exchange for amnesty, which could be beneficial if Robin Hood could secure job security of some kind for him and his men. There is growing political unrest in the area, and it would be a matter of time before Prince John and Sheriff of Nottingham would be removed from their positions.

The return of King Richard the Lionheart would ensure a happier nation, and less political stress on the poor and that would put Robin and his "merry men" out of a job.

So would a new mission be in his best interest? I believe so. The current mission is baring thin profits as people have become aware of the 'dangers' of the forest. Therefore, Robin Hood must first downsize his band, and re-establish a new area to operate in.

The band of "merry men" is also suffering within their ranks. With the lack of 'work' and the growing numbers, it is becoming harder to organize and profit sharing is suffering. Robin Hood had delegated well. "Will Scarlet was in charge of intelligence and scouting.... Little John kept discipline among the men and saw to it that their archery was at the high peak that their profession demanded...Much the…