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Design in the decision-making process

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Abstract

The design of alternative courses of action is an essential part of decision-making, but one which has been neglected in theory and practice. A pilot study of alternatives' design in organizations suggests that already in the design stage choice focuses on a few alternatives, highlighting the importance of design in affecting the quality of outcomes. Design may be search or creativity, or a blend of both. While search is probably a significant part of design, there may be a residue of basically irrational creativity. These observations suggest that design should be deliberately undertaken in decision- and policy-making, by intensifying search, developing and utilizing design methods, and providing organizational creativity-enhancing environments.

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  1. Department of Urban Planning, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, P.O. Box 413, WI53201, Milwaukee, USA

    Ernest R. Alexander

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Alexander, E.R. Design in the decision-making process. Policy Sci 14, 279–292 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00136401

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