Which criterion is NOT used by managers to determine the best approach to respond to the environment?

Choosing responses that maximize company culture is not typically a direct criterion that managers use when determining the best approach to respond to environmental changes. While company culture is an important aspect of overall management and can influence how decisions are made, it is not a specific criterion for evaluating responses to external conditions. Instead, managers focus on practical, measurable aspects such as adapting to changes, selecting the most appropriate response to circumstances, and evaluating the cost-benefit of responses.

In contrast, the other criteria emphasize adaptability, effectiveness, and economic considerations, which are quintessential in strategic management decision-making processes. Such approaches ensure that decisions are not only culturally sound but also actionable and beneficial to the organization in a tangible way.