Technique 5.18 Evaluation Of Decision-Making

Introduction

This technique provides a systematic approach to good decision-making and provides confidence.

It examines how well you structure your decision-making process and identify ways to improve it.

Quiz

For each statement, tick the relevant circle at that best describes you.

Answer questions as they actually are rather than what you would like your response to be.

(source: MTCT, 2023)

Comments

i ) questions 3, 7, 13 & 16 (create a positive decision-making environment, ie everyone needs to understand the issues being discussed as the basis for a decision.
"...This includes agreeing on an objective,  making sure the right issue is being discussed, and agreeing on a process to move the decision forward..."
MTCT, 2023

Other points include addressing any interpersonal considerations at the start; people involved agreed to respect one another and engage in open and honest discussion.)

ii) questions 4, 8 & 11 (encouraging diverse views and perspectives so that the discussion arrives at the maximum number of good solutions to select from)

iii) questions 1, 6 & 15 (evaluating the solution to make a decision; this involves considering the risks (understanding them), consequences (evaluating impact) and feasibility (is the choice realistic and implementable?))

iv) questions 5, 10 & 17 (after evaluating, the decision is made; be objective as possible to handle emotions)

v) questions 2 & 9 (check your decision, ie it works on rational, emotional and instinctive levels; check your assumptions are correct; be prepared to be creative)

vi) questions 12, 14 & 18 (thoroughly communicate and implement the decision to maximise ownership by key stakeholders, ie explain how and why you reached the decision
"...people are used to responding positively to a clear plan - one that tells them what to expect and what they need to do..."
MTCT, 2023a)