Podcast
Questions and Answers
What should the first step in making a sound decision be?
What should the first step in making a sound decision be?
Which of the following factors should a good decision take into account?
Which of the following factors should a good decision take into account?
What human element can influence decision-making according to the content?
What human element can influence decision-making according to the content?
During the investigation stage of decision-making, managers should be alert to which of the following?
During the investigation stage of decision-making, managers should be alert to which of the following?
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Which step follows the evaluation of alternatives in the decision-making process?
Which step follows the evaluation of alternatives in the decision-making process?
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What is NOT a step in making a sound decision?
What is NOT a step in making a sound decision?
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What does an effective control method require for balancing actions?
What does an effective control method require for balancing actions?
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Which element should be part of defining a problem in the decision-making process?
Which element should be part of defining a problem in the decision-making process?
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What type of probability is determined by recording actual events over time?
What type of probability is determined by recording actual events over time?
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Which of the following best describes the purpose of queuing theory?
Which of the following best describes the purpose of queuing theory?
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What problem does linear programming primarily aim to resolve?
What problem does linear programming primarily aim to resolve?
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Which of the following statements best describes simulation in a management context?
Which of the following statements best describes simulation in a management context?
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When using simulation to investigate the impact on hospital stay length, which variable could be tested?
When using simulation to investigate the impact on hospital stay length, which variable could be tested?
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What defines a deviation in the context of problem identification?
What defines a deviation in the context of problem identification?
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What should a manager consider when determining solutions for a problem?
What should a manager consider when determining solutions for a problem?
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What is the primary goal of the evaluation step in the solution selection process?
What is the primary goal of the evaluation step in the solution selection process?
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Which of the following describes a causal problem?
Which of the following describes a causal problem?
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What is a key consideration when generating options for problem-solving?
What is a key consideration when generating options for problem-solving?
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In the context of decision-making techniques, what do qualitative tools rely on?
In the context of decision-making techniques, what do qualitative tools rely on?
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What is one of the purposes of implementation and follow-up in decision-making?
What is one of the purposes of implementation and follow-up in decision-making?
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How does personal judgment develop over time according to decision-making principles?
How does personal judgment develop over time according to decision-making principles?
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What is one common technique used in group decision making that encourages free expression of ideas?
What is one common technique used in group decision making that encourages free expression of ideas?
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Which decision-making approach involves obtaining anonymous expert opinions before a meeting?
Which decision-making approach involves obtaining anonymous expert opinions before a meeting?
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Which method involves a structured meeting where ideas are collected privately and then discussed anonymously?
Which method involves a structured meeting where ideas are collected privately and then discussed anonymously?
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What tool is used to evaluate facts by outlining their opportunities and risks?
What tool is used to evaluate facts by outlining their opportunities and risks?
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Which branch of management science focuses on providing quantitative tools for decision making?
Which branch of management science focuses on providing quantitative tools for decision making?
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What does probability analysis measure in decision making?
What does probability analysis measure in decision making?
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Which of the following approaches is primarily used to allocate limited resources among competing needs?
Which of the following approaches is primarily used to allocate limited resources among competing needs?
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What type of probability is derived from deductions based on assumed conditions?
What type of probability is derived from deductions based on assumed conditions?
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Study Notes
Decision Making and Problem Solving
- Good decisions are grounded in comprehensive investigations of root causes and potential issues alongside obvious symptoms.
- It is crucial to identify and evaluate various alternative solutions before selecting the best option through in-depth analysis of available information.
- Implementation of the chosen solution requires an effective strategy.
- Human emotions, prejudices, and peer pressure significantly influence decision-making processes, though they should be controlled, not eliminated.
- Disclosure serves as a means of effective control, allowing participants to evaluate impacts and take appropriate actions.
Steps in Making a Sound Decision
- Recognition: Become aware of problems needing management attention, often initiated by complaints or quality control flags.
- Investigation: Collect data and interview staff to uncover underlying issues contributing to the problem.
- Definition: Distinguish between surface symptoms (random human errors) and root causes (systematic problems).
- Identification of Alternatives: Generate a comprehensive list of potential solutions, considering all options while being aware of time constraints.
- Evaluation and Selection: Analyze feasible solutions using various tools to choose the best alternative.
- Implementation and Follow-Up: Develop plans to execute the decision and monitor compliance, ensuring it aligns with overall operational goals.
Decision-Making Techniques
Qualitative Tools
- Personal judgment develops from experience and training, playing a vital role in evaluating alternatives.
- Solicitation of advice involves collaboration, forming committees, and gaining consensus, leveraging group thinking.
- Common techniques include:
- Brainstorming: Free flow of ideas for later evaluation.
- Synectics: Group problem-solving approach bringing together diverse perspectives.
- Nominal Grouping: Structured meetings promoting private idea generation and anonymous voting.
- Delphi Method: Soliciting expert opinions via questionnaires prior to group discussions.
- Systematic Option Review: Prioritize options based on attractivity, often using T-charts to clarify risks and benefits.
Quantitative Tools
- Operations Research (OR) provides quantitative decision-making tools, encompassing areas such as:
- Probability Analysis: Evaluating risks as percentages of likely events.
- Queuing Theory: Recommendations for staffing based on service demands.
- Linear Programming: Allocating limited resources among competing needs.
- Simulation: Modeling real-life scenarios to compare intervention outcomes.
Probability Analysis Types
- A Priori Probability: Assumed conditions used to estimate probabilities.
- Empirical Probability: Based on actual event data collected over time.
- Subjective Probability: Predictions made based on individual or group experience.
Applications of Decision-Making Tools
- Queuing Theory: Determines staffing requirements, balancing prompt service and adequate staffing ratios.
- Linear Programming: Addresses allocation constraints and aims to maximize resource utilization while minimizing losses.
- Simulation: Uses computer models to assess impacts on systems, such as hospital patient stay lengths based on test run timings.
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Description
This quiz explores the critical aspects of decision making and problem solving. It covers the importance of investigating root causes, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions effectively. Additionally, it examines the influence of emotions and peer pressure in the decision-making process.
