Wednesday, May 27, 2009

What is the rational decision-making model? Under what conditions is it applicable?

What is the rational decision-making model? Under what conditions is it applicable?

Rational decision making models involve a cognitive process where each step follows in a logical order from the one before. By cognitive, I mean it is based on thinking through and weighing up the alternatives to come up with the best potential result.

There are different types of rational models and the number of steps involved, and even the steps themselves, will differ in different models.

Some people assume that decision making is equivalent to problem solving. Some decisions however are not problem oriented and I've taken this into consideration when describing the general outline of a rational model below.

Steps in a rational decision making model

· Define the situation/decision to be made
· Identify the important criteria for the process and the result
· Consider all possible solutions
· Calculate the consequences of these solutions versus the likelihood of satisfying the criteria
· Choose the best option

Rational Decision making model is basically the process which is used for making logically sound decisions. This model is applicable in a condition where it is important to follow an orderly and systematic path.

It has the following steps:

- Identify and define the problem
- - Generate possible solutions
- - Generate assessment criteria
- - Choose the best solution from the possible solutions.
- - Implement the best solution.
- - Monitor and evaluate the results.
- Feedback

The method of making the decision depends upon its importance. The more important the decision, the more time consuming it would be and you would need more information for making the decision. While making the decision, you need to see its objective and importance, the people who would be affected by it and also the organizational aspects that would be involved. The most important thing is to analyze your resources and different alternatives. You would also have to gather the necessary information needed to make the decision. You also need to keep in mind the time frame in which you have to reach a result. You should also discuss the situation with you other managers so that all points are covered and they get to participate in the decision making process and this is very important these days. Always remember that whatever you decide should have a rationale to it and you should be able to communicate it to the other people working in the organization.

No comments:

Post a Comment