Making Strategic Decisions Module Summary

Purpose
To make strategic decisions tied to company objectives

Learning Goals
· Recognize the importance of thinking strategically when making a decision
· Apply the guidelines for making effective decisions
· Base decisions on sound criteria linked to company objectives

Design Concept
The Game of Chess

Learning Principles
· Strategic direction:  Review vision, mission, & strategic objectives for the organization
· Four levels of authority
· The need to consult the right people
· Decision matrix

Skill Model
Five Step Process to Guide Decision Making

Individual and Group Exercises
Snap decision: Pairs exercise to make a snap decision in a simple case study
Decision making practice: Choose a situation requiring a decision and apply the guidelines

Discussions
· Define strategic decisions and routine decisions.
· Evaluate the last decision you made: Your role? Your level of authority?

Case Study/Role Play
Case Study: Big Products Inc., a case study example using the decision-making guidelines

Speed Bumps
Places to slow down

Action Planning
What’s most important as you move forward?

Approximate Time Length of Module: 3.0 – 3.5 hours