The Case for Guidelines Over Rules

I remember it like it was yesterday.

In 2001, I was working for Lawson Software (since acquired) on a project in New York City. One Friday, I routinely submitted my expense report that included travel and meals. My total expenses for the week fell under $200 since I lived in New Jersey and commuted daily into The Big Apple. Yet, next week, my manager rejected my expenses. The reason? My lunch one day cost a staggering $18. Evidently, that broke some rule and I had some 'splaining to do.

Now, go to lunch one day in Manhattan, but skip the posh restaurant. Let's say that you're pretty hungry. Even at a take-out place more than a decade ago, you would easily drop at least ten bucks on lunch, and $20 is not out of the question with a beverage with delivery charges and tips.