by Michelle Powers

Created on: December 01, 2008   Last Updated: October 05, 2011

Let us walk through the 5 steps of decision making; define the opportunity, identify and analyze alternative courses of action, and estimate their effects on the problem or opportunity choose a preferred course of action, to implement the choice, and evaluate the results and proceed with any follow up if necessary, while using the example of adopting a dog. Keep in mind this decision making process is used in managerial positions but everyday people use it as well. It is a systematic approach to making a choice.

I have to make a decision whether or not to adopt a dog. The first step of decision making is to recognize and define the problem or opportunity; which is whether or not to adopt a dog. Adopting a dog is a financial responsibility and a big time commitment. Adopting a dog is also timely and demands an owner to put aside time for the dog; but so many dogs need a home...

The second part of decision making process is to identify and analyze alternative courses of action, and estimate their effects on the problem or opportunity. I could adopt a dog and I would have a lot more responsibilities in my life; financial burden of vet care; additional rent costs for m y apartment, food, grooming, and a babysitting service to check in while I am at work. A dog could provide companionship but my cats might not like having a dog in the house and that could affect their relationship with me. I could also choose to sponsor an adoption for a family who really wants a dog and is ready to handle the additional responsibilities.

The third step in decision making is to choose a preferred course of action. I have decided to sponsor an adoption and give the gift of a home to a dog in a shelter. This will allow me to help another animal while not having to worry about all the responsibility of owning a dog.

In the fourth part of decision making you actually have to implement the choice. I will write a check to the local dog shelter so they may place the animal in a loving home. This will allow me to help out but not financially burden me. This will also give a family the gift of a family pet with one less cost to worry about it.

The 5th step of decision making is to evaluate the results and proceed with any follow up if necessary. The results of my decision are productive and a successful choice for me, a family, and a dog who would have had to spend the rest of his life in a shelter.

Learn more about this author, Michelle Powers.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.