How can one deal with bad management?
noodle: you are not wrong, and there are many companies that operate like this.  it sounds like you're in a service-oriented company, where the product is built to fit the requirements of the customers.  there are many companies that operate like this.  they're typically steady paychecks, but not engaging or challenging jobs.if you dislike whats happening, you're not going to change it, as the atmosphere is typically a byproduct of management's direction for the company.  look for a job elsewhere.