Learning moments in week four educational contexts

Management

Learning Moment

One of the most important learning moments in this chapter came from reading the section on "The Stages in Decision Making." Learning about the decision-making process was valuable, (and a bit unnerving), but when the authors broke down the process into stages, it became much more valuable and understandable at the same time. The six stages: "(1) identify and diagnose the problem, (2) generate alternative solutions, (3) evaluate alternatives, (4) make the choice, (5) implement the decision, and (6) evaluate the decision" broke the process down into something that was easily understood, but also seemed quite practical for use in the workplace. I could see a manager applying those steps to difficult situations to diffuse the situation while taking quite rational steps toward solving the problem. Problem solving for a manager can be one of the most challenging aspects of the position, and having concrete tools to use for the most difficult problems is valuable and something that a good manager can always use and apply to even the most difficult workplace situations.

I felt that including real-time business problems and solutions in this chapter was extremely valuable. The chapter was quite timely, indicating how businesses affected by 9/11 handled impossibly complex situations. It was also helpful to see references to companies that have not handled crisis successfully, such as Enron. Concrete examples such as these are valuable because they show that competent managers and teamwork can handle even the most difficult situations effectively. They also are open and honest that problems will exist in any organization; it is how the organization reacts to the problems that can set it apart from the rest. This chapter does not gloss over problems, it recognizes they exist and a manager must deal with them. I think that is important knowledge for any business student. They must recognize the positives and the negatives of the business world and how to deal with them, rather than simply hoping problems will not crop up, or someone else will handle them. Also understanding there is no "best" decision, but there are steps to take to ensure a valid, workable decision is helpful. It shows that no one is infallible, but there are steps that can lead just about anyone down the path toward good decisions if they are followed and implemented in sequence and with thought and care.

A also felt the section on barriers to effective decision-making was important. It is helpful to recognize the things that may get in the way of good decision-making, both in others and myself. Certainly, at least some of these barriers will crop up in the decision-making process, and it is good to understand them so they will be recognizable. To recognize these barriers is the first step in overcoming them and moving along toward a successful conclusion. Providing the six steps was valuable, but illustrating no decision-making process is always clear sailing is also a valuable step for me and how I view the entire management process. Learning how to be a more effective manager will only help me in my future business endeavors. I think the aspects of play and creativity were also important tools in this chapter. Too many organizations take themselves too seriously in the business world. It seems that if more organizations could "loosen up" a little and give their staff the opportunity to think creatively, look at new ideas, and even play while they are creating, then they would gain from these ideas in the end. Some of the most creative and innovative ideas come out of play and willingness to change. Corporations that stay stagnant or dull cannot compete in an innovative world, and this chapter shows the value of encouraging openness and willingness to use new ideas and concepts for the benefit of the entire organization.