Use the Right Model at the Right Time

There are many ways to make decisions.Sometimes we get stuck using the approach we’ve always used or the only approach we know. And sometimes, we may not even consider how our group make decisions and for that reason, we don’t! The thing is, there are lots of different decision-making models. None of them is the best, but each of them, at one time or another, is the best one to employ given the situation. Five different decision-making models are summarized below. Each one includes the related context and concerns around its application with groups. Get to know these models and when to best employ each one.

Five Popular Decision-Making Models

	Authoritative Model: Information and authority reside with the leader. Appropriate when the leader alone has knowledge related to the decision or when time is critical. Method: The leader controls the decision without input or suggestions from others and holds personal responsibility for the outcome. Concerns: This model is non-participative. Others in the organization may not support the decision and there is a lack of group responsibility for outcomes.
	Majority Decides-Voting Model: Information and authority reside with the leaders and all group members. Appropriate when all group members have knowledge about the decision and formality required. Method: The leader shares control of the decision by allowing the group to vote. The outcome is decided by majority wins. Concerns: Those who disagree with the decision may undermine efforts to implement it.
	Participative Model: Team members have information related to the decision. Authority resides with the leader. Appropriate when the leader must make a decision but needs input or information from others. Method: In the participative model, the leader makes a decision after receiving information and suggestions from other group members. Concerns: While the leader receives input from others, implementers may disagree with the decision. There is also a lack of group responsibility.
	Contributive Model: Information and authority reside with the leader and those who will implement the decision. Appropriate when a small number of individuals will carry out the work for the whole. Method: In contributive decision-making, a leader and key implementers receive input and suggestions from all members of the group, but ultimately, the small group decides the direction to take. Contributive decision-making is similar to the Consensus model but narrows the actually decision-making body to those who will the complete work associated with the decision. Concerns: The contributive decision-making method requires explanation and practice before most groups become comfortable with it.
	Consensus Model: Information and authority resides with the leader and all group members. Appropriate when participation from all group members is important and the decision will impact the group as a whole. Method: Everyone in the group needs to agree and make a decision together. Concerns: Has the potential to be very slow or to hold a group hostage if group members fail to agree.

Action

Get familiar with each of these models and their pro’s and con’s. Then practice employing the most appropriate approach the next time your group needs to make a decision. Share your experiences, questions, or feedback in the comments section below. I’d love to hear from you!