LM - Decision Making [LESSON]

Decision Making

So far in this module, we have focused on the importance of clearly defined goals and plans for decision-making. In this lesson, you will learn about the steps in the decision-making process as well as tips and resources for planning and executing projects.

The Decision-Making Process | Knowledge Point

Individuals in leadership and management positions are responsible for making decisions that go along with the organization’s strategic plans. To make the right decisions and to learn from wrong decisions, leaders should use the seven steps of the decision-making process. Please interact with the Decision-Making Process activity below, click the arrows on the bottom right of the activity to continue.

Planning and Executing Projects | Knowledge Point

Whether you are at work or at home, getting and staying organized can save time, reduce stress, and allow you to be more productive. This also holds true while planning and executing decisions and business projects. We discussed organizational skills in a previous module. Now, take some time to consider organizational skills in the context of the decision-making process. Listed below are a few tips and tools that can be used to help organize time, space, and tasks.

Organize your workspace – This can be helpful in minimizing distractions. Consider using a desk organizer and designating a place for all materials and supplies.

Use a planner or calendar – A calendar can be used to detail daily tasks and project deadlines. Reminders and important events of the week can be listed. This is especially important if there is something that needs to be prepared before an event.

Spreadsheets – One way to monitor work toward a larger project or goal is through the use of spreadsheets. A large project can be split into smaller chunks with due dates and a time frame to reference. There are many different software programs and platforms that offer spreadsheet capabilities.

Smartphone reminders – many smartphones have lots of features that can aid in organization and planning. One common tool is the reminder feature. This feature can set reminders throughout the day or even for months in advance. This can help ensure that important dates and responsibilities get the attention they need.

To-do lists – Making a list is a simple and effective way to organize tasks without the need for fancy tools or technology. Making a list of tasks that need to be completed is fast and effective. Also, not to mention the satisfaction that is felt when checking off a task that has been accomplished!

Filing system – Both digital files and hard copy files can become overwhelming if you do not have a system for organizing them. Therefore, consider developing a system for filing and organizing documents and resources. If you work better with hard copies of documents, you might invest in folders or binders and then develop an organizational system that works well for you and the project.

Decision-Making Module | Practice Activity

Consider the following scenario: A small marketing team within a larger company is facing an issue in which the workload is not evenly distributed among the team members. Some employees are overwhelmed with tasks while others have more manageable workloads. The imbalance in work is affecting the team’s morale and productivity.

Using the decision-making model, match each event to the appropriate step.

Reflection

The decision-making process is used with decisions both big and small. It is important to be organized and plan ahead when making decisions and executing business projects. If the decision does not end with the expected results, start the decision-making process over to achieve the desired outcome.

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