Decide

Make a decision based on evaluation and criteria

decision-making evaluation criteria

Problem it solves

limiting beliefs

Best for

Individuals and teams looking to make a decision based on evaluation and criteria

Not ideal for

Those who are unsure of their goals or lack clear direction

Overview

Why this framework exists

Deciding involves making a decision based on evaluation and criteria. This requires identifying the key factors and criteria that will influence the decision, and developing a plan to evaluate the alternatives. The key to successful deciding is to stay focused, evaluate the alternatives objectively, and make a decision based on the criteria.

Core principles

3 total

Clear goals are essential for effective decision-making
Identifying key factors and criteria is crucial for success
Developing a plan to evaluate alternatives is key to making a decision

Steps

3 steps

Define the Goal
Clearly define the goal and identify the key objectives. This involves understanding what needs to be achieved and what the desired outcome is.
Pro tipMake sure the goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)
WarningAvoid vague or poorly defined goals that can lead to confusion and inefficiency
Identify Alternatives
Identify the alternatives and evaluate them based on the criteria. This involves identifying the key factors and criteria that will influence the decision.
Pro tipUse a decision matrix to evaluate the alternatives and identify the most suitable option
WarningAvoid evaluating alternatives based on personal biases or emotions
Make a Decision
Make a decision based on the evaluation of the alternatives. This involves selecting the most suitable option and developing a plan to implement it.
Pro tipUse a decision-making framework to guide the decision-making process
WarningAvoid making a decision based on incomplete or inaccurate information

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Have I clearly defined the goal and objectives?
Have I identified the alternatives and evaluated them based on the criteria?
Have I made a decision based on the evaluation of the alternatives?
Have I developed a plan to implement the decision?

Examples

1 cases

Business Decision

A business owner is looking to make a decision about whether to expand their operations or not. They use the decide framework to define the goal, identify alternatives, and evaluate them based on the criteria. They use a decision matrix to evaluate the alternatives and identify the most suitable option.

OutcomeThe business owner is able to make an informed decision and choose the best option for their business.

Edward de Bono, Teach Yourself To Think

Common mistakes

3 traps

Lack of Clear Goals

Failing to clearly define the goal and objectives can lead to confusion and inefficiency. This can result in wasted time and resources, and a lack of progress towards the desired outcome.

Inadequate Evaluation

Failing to evaluate the alternatives objectively can lead to a poor decision. This can result in frustration and a lack of motivation, and can ultimately lead to failure to achieve the goal.

Poor Decision-Making

Failing to make a decision based on the evaluation of the alternatives can lead to a lack of progress towards the goal. This can result in missed deadlines and a lack of achievement, and can ultimately lead to disappointment and frustration.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of deciding is rooted in the idea of decision-making. Edward de Bono's work on thinking and problem-solving emphasizes the importance of clear goals and effective decision-making in achieving success. By providing a framework for deciding, individuals and teams can develop the skills and strategies needed to make informed decisions.

Source

Traced to primary

Source · BOOK

Teach Yourself To Think

Edward de Bono · 2020

Open source →

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