This method can help leaders make better decisions.

“It’s important to realize that decision making is actually a process, and it’s the process of selecting a choice from a range of possible options, with the goal of achieving a very specific objective,” writes Mike Figliuolo for the Thought Leadership blog.

Figliuolo explains important principles to consider when making decisions.

• Be clear. When faced with a decision, it’s helpful to be clear about what you’re trying to achieve, and also who and what you need to consider when making that decision.

“Some people are going to provide input, other people will provide perspective on implementation, other people will actually make the decision, and having clarity of roles is critical for successful decision making,” writes Figliuolo.

• Reduce risk. Do this by gathering as much information as possible, writes Figliuolo. Ask yourself questions about what your desired outcome is, any metrics you’re using to define success, and who the decision will affect.
• Do more than just decide. Once your decision is made, you need to let your stakeholders know what the decision was, and importantly, the reason behind it. But the work isn’t done.

“So the decision making cycle that you should think about following is first, prepare to make the decision, then you actually make the decision, communicate it to people in the organization, execute, which is put the decision into action, and measure and adjust accordingly,” explains Figliuolo.