A Model for Decision Making
Introduction
The many decision making models that exist nowadays means that you even have to make a decision as to which one to use! There are rational models, intuitive models, rational-iterative models as well as 5, 6, 7 and even 9 step decision models.
Most, however, move through each of the basic stages in decision making On this page we will quickly scan over the main points of some of these decision models so that you have a sense of what 's available.
Some of these decision making models presuppose that decision making is the same as problem solving. Frequently, the first step in the decision making process is to identify the problem. I don 't believe that every decision is solving a problem. For example, deciding whether you want dark chocolate or milk chocolate is not, in and of itself, a problem frame.
I also understand that for some people decision making can be a problem! But that does not mean that they are the same thing. So my descriptions and ideas below keep these things separate.
7-Steps Model 1. Establish objectives 2. Classify and prioritize objectives 3. Develop alternative actions 4. Evaluate alternatives against objectives 5. Tentative decision to most appropriate alternative 6. Evaluation of tentative decision for more consequences 7. Decisive action is taken and additional actions to prevent consequences
Rational Model
This type of model is based around a cognitive judgment of the pros and cons of various options. It is organized around selecting the most logical and sensible alternative that will have the desired effect. Detailed analysis of alternatives and a comparative assessment of the advantages of each is the order of the day.
* Consists of a structured four-step sequence: * identifying the problem * generating alternative solutions * selecting a solution * implementing and evaluating the solution * Techniques used in rational model of
The many decision making models that exist nowadays means that you even have to make a decision as to which one to use! There are rational models, intuitive models, rational-iterative models as well as 5, 6, 7 and even 9 step decision models.
Most, however, move through each of the basic stages in decision making On this page we will quickly scan over the main points of some of these decision models so that you have a sense of what 's available.
Some of these decision making models presuppose that decision making is the same as problem solving. Frequently, the first step in the decision making process is to identify the problem. I don 't believe that every decision is solving a problem. For example, deciding whether you want dark chocolate or milk chocolate is not, in and of itself, a problem frame.
I also understand that for some people decision making can be a problem! But that does not mean that they are the same thing. So my descriptions and ideas below keep these things separate.
7-Steps Model 1. Establish objectives 2. Classify and prioritize objectives 3. Develop alternative actions 4. Evaluate alternatives against objectives 5. Tentative decision to most appropriate alternative 6. Evaluation of tentative decision for more consequences 7. Decisive action is taken and additional actions to prevent consequences
Rational Model
This type of model is based around a cognitive judgment of the pros and cons of various options. It is organized around selecting the most logical and sensible alternative that will have the desired effect. Detailed analysis of alternatives and a comparative assessment of the advantages of each is the order of the day.
* Consists of a structured four-step sequence: * identifying the problem * generating alternative solutions * selecting a solution * implementing and evaluating the solution * Techniques used in rational model of
References: Simon, H. A. (1997). Administrative behavior: A study of decision-making processes in administrative organizations, 4th Edition. NY: The Free Press. Fottler, M.D., McAfee, R.B., & Nkomo, S.M. (2011). Human resource management application. 7th Edition. South-Western, CENGAGE Learning Banning M. A review of clinical decision making: models and current research. J Clin Nurs.2008;17(2):187–95. Baron, J. (2004). Normative models of judgment and decision making. In D. J. Koehler& N. Harvey (Eds.), Blackwell Handbook of Judgment and Decision Making, pp. 19:36. London: Blackwell.