Utilizing Decision-Making Tools

     Yesterday, we began to look at how to make a good decision starting with analysis. Promotional Consultant Today continues to discuss the elements of good decision-making.                                                   

Identifying Pros And Cons

     There are a number of effective decision-making tools. One easy tool is the pro/con T-chart. 

     Before making decisions identify the outcome pros and cons. After a list has been generated go back and put a value on each item. By writing it down you will be more likely to see the value of the outcomes for the decision.

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"Indecision becomes decision with time."

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Diagram Your Decision

     Another excellent tool is the cause and effect diagram. It is the brainchild of Kaoru Ishikawa, who pioneered quality management methods at the Kawasaki shipyards and in the process, became one of the founding fathers of modern management. 

     The cause and effect diagram is used to explore all the potential or real causes (or inputs) that result in a single effect (or output). Causes are arranged according to their level of importance or detail, resulting in a depiction of relationships and hierarchy of events.

     This tool help you search for root causes, identify areas where there may be problems, and compare the relative importance of different causes. Click here to see a sample of the diagram.

     Source: Deanne DeMarco, MA, RCCI, is an award-winning trainer and certified business coach.  She is also the author of several books including Pocket Resource: Coaching Tips and Speaking of Success.