7 Steps in Decision Making: from Identification to Implementation

 
1 Identify a problem or opportunity:

The first step is to recognise a problem or to see opportunities that may be worthwhile. Will it really make a difference to our customers?

How worthwhile will it be to solve this problem or realise this opportunity?

 2 Gather information:

What is relevant and what is not relevant to the decision?

What do you need to know before you can make a decision, or that will help you make the right one?

Who knows, who can help, who has the power and influence to make this happen (or to stop it)?
                           3 Analyze the situation:

What alternative courses of action may be available to you? 

What different interpretations of the data may be possible?





                                   4 Develop options:

 
Generate several possible options. Be creative and positive. Ask “ what if ” questions.

How would you like your situation to be?







                               5 Evaluate alternatives:

 What criteria should you use to evaluate? Evaluate for feasibility, acceptability and desirability. 

Which alternative will best achieve your objectives?

                      6 Select a preferred alternative:

 
Explore the provisional preferred alternative for future possible adverse consequences.

What problems might it create? What are the risks of making this decision?



                             7 Act on the decision:

 Put a plan in place to implement the decision. Have you allocated resources to implement?

Is the decision accepted and supported by colleagues? Are they committed to making the
decision work?