Better decision making
Sooner or later, congress is going to pass legislation affecting your industry. Right now it’s all about health care, but sooner or later your environment is going to change, no matter what your industry. When that happens, managers at all levels will be faced with decisions that have to be made in response. What are some of the attributes of “better” decisions?
Heres’ my list. Please add to it.
The decision makers:
- Consider the “futurity” of their decision. That is, they consider long term implications as well as the short term.
- Address the real issue (This may sound strange, but ask any consultant about being asked to solve a problem that was not the real problem.)
- Consider multiple points of view (their POV is only one of many.)
- Actively consider the risk involved with the decision.
- Understand ALL of the criteria that will be used to make the decision.
- Consider the ability of the organization to execute the decision.
- Expose and vet the assumptions underlying the issue and decision.
- include emotional and cultural realities in their deliberation.
- Are willing to consider the “cons” as well as the “pros” of their favorite option.
Many of you are already good at making decisions. What would make you better? What should I add to my list?
Date: November 1st, 2009 @ 19:45
Categories: Leadership
