Problem Solving and Decision Making
Problem Solving and Decision Making
The first leg of decision-making is goals and objective. The second stage is problem
recognition. Here, the decision-maker has to be able to know what is happening and also to
recognize the discrepancies which exists. During the third stage, the decision-maker must
evaluate the discrepancy whether it is an important one or not. Next, it has to be found out how
the problem occurred i.e., ‘information-search phase’. This stage is crucial but least handled
well. In the next stage ‘course of action’ must be explored i.e., number of alternatives be
explored. This is the ‘alternative-generation’ phase. Next comes the evaluation of alternatives
that is the ‘choice phase’. Here, the pros and cons of each alternative have to be thought about
before taking a decision which is known as choice of action. The last phase of the process
involves the implementation and evaluation of the decision.
V. Decision-Making Styles
1. Individual Decision Making – The leader must make the decision alone, and
input from others is limited to collecting relevant information.
2. Group Decision Making – The leader and others work together until they reach
a consensus decision. Each group member’s opinion and point of view is
considered.
3. Decision Making Through Consultation – The leader consults with others for
ideas and suggestions before making a decision, considering their input but
retaining final decision-making authority.
4. Delegating the Decision – The leader sets the parameters, and then allows one or
more colleagues to make the final decision. Although the leader does not make the
decision, he or she supports it.
VI. Problem-Solving Model