This isn't a case study in Classic Mistakes - it's fiction. If it's from a real company, it doesn't make any sense. The trouble that Our Hero gets into is too cliche - not even Dilbert's Pointy-Haired boss would let executives double the effort and halve the schedule.

Since we all agree it's fiction, then we have to look at what this parable is supposed to teach us. And even here, the fiction falls down: I see nothing obvious. If we're too take away "for want of a nail...", then the old rhyme would be more succint. If we're to take away something more general, then the story just doesn't convey it.

Sorry, Steve.