Decision Framework

Prompt:

Write a 200 word post on what framework you use to make decisions.

Response:

The first thing I do is frame the problem and gather as much information about the problem as possible. It’s important to gather information before making a decision so that we make sure that it is well thought out. During this stage I would also establish decision making criteria and finding what is important in making the decision. Some criteria could be like its impact, cost, manpower, etc.

At this point, now that I’ve identified what I think is important in making this decision I would start brainstorming the possible options. I’d identify different options and evaluate different options and risks associated with those options. It’s important to weigh alternates against each other to measure risk and reward comprehensively. I would treat this stage somewhat like a cycle where you continually brainstorm and analyze the possible decisions.

When I finally settle on a decision, it is important to ask questions like “Does this accomplish what I want?” and “Is this problem defined correctly?”. If not, I would circle back and further define the problem and criteria. Finally, after deciding on the path, I’d do some “project management” plan including deciding who should work on it and its timeline.

What follows includes implementing and monitoring the decision continuously to see that it performs optimally.