Decision Making Process

“Decision making is the process of making choices with setting goals, gathering information, and assessing alternative occupations” (UMass, 2015). The process involves 5 main steps: 1) identifying the problem(s), 2) gathering necessary information that is directly related to the problem, 3) identifying alternatives and weighing the evidence, 4) making the decision and 5) evaluating the decision. This paper will analyze case study 1: Alex and Dave business scenario using the five steps in the decision making process. This case study analysis will identify key issues, and problems, outline and assess alternative courses of action, and use information to determine the best course(s) of action.

Identifying the problem

The first step involved in the decision making process involves identifying the problem or situation in which one needs to make a decision (Mitchell, 2010). In this case scenario, the Tyson’s Corner division Alex oversees has a few major problem/challenges. The division he manages has combination of management, technology and organizational issues. The management problem stems from the fact that Alex needs to exert appropriate leadership over the people he is managing; to motivate, empower, communicate and develop teams. The technology problem stems from the fact that slow IT service turnaround has resulted in a limited number of computers available for use within his division during a critical phase in a project. The scarcity of computer hardware available has a negative impact on job performance and productivity. In addition, employee development and software training is much needed in order to meet the demands of the clients and overall objectives of the organization. Lastly, the organizational issues stems from work group dynamics, business processes and policies. Therefore, as General Manager of the Tyson’s Corner division, Alex’s goal is to solve these problems based on the constraints and resources that are made available to him. Alex must...