🗳️How To Make A Technical Decision?
Are you unsure about how to make a technical decision? Here are some guidelines that can help you make an informed choice.
Hi, I’m Wajid Khan. I am trying to explain computer stuff in a simple and engaging manner, so that even non-techies can easily understand, and delivered to your inbox biweekly. Join me on an under-the-hood tech journey.
It is commendable that you are faced with the task of making decisions. Looking back, it is possible to recognize that certain decisions were flawed, but that does not imply that you had prior knowledge or that you should blame yourself for it afterwards.
🚨The task of predicting the future is a difficult one.
Not making a decision can often be worse than making the wrong one. Failing to make a decision results in missed opportunities.
Let's discuss making decisions that will leave you feeling satisfied. What factors determine the quality of a decision, even before you have the ability to judge its rightness?
The best decision is:
Knowledgeable (supported by data) : The claims made in this report are supported by extensive data and evidence.
On time (neither too early nor too late): The timing of the decision is crucial, as it should neither be made too early nor too late.
Aligned (In line with the goals and objectives of the company.) : All efforts are aligned with the goals and objectives of the company.
Scaled (Project significance determines resource allocation.): Investment and resources will be allocated based on project significance.)
It is important for managers to be aware of and involved in the decision-making process within their organization.
It is important that you invest effort in training your teams and organizations to enhance their ability to make effective decisions. Making successful decisions involves more than just being quick or achieving a desired result; it also entails empowering others to make optimal decisions for the benefit of the team.
🚨Not making a decision is still a decision.
The presence of a well-defined framework for effective decision making can be incredibly beneficial. Since learning about the RACI model, I have made a conscious effort to apply its principles in my work, and I continue to do so today.
In order to move forward, the initial step is to clearly define the decision that needs to be made and determine the deadline for its resolution. Please take a moment to write it down. Next, you can proceed by implementing RACI, which stands for Responsible, Approves, Consulted, and Informed - an acronym that effectively outlines the essential stakeholders involved in making a decision.
This outlines the characteristics and qualities of the person who is:
Responsible. Who will make the decision? It is important to delegate decision-making authority to the lowest competent level. If you haven't done that, it implies that you are not delegating a sufficient amount of tasks.
Accountable. Who has the power to approve or reject? It is this person who possesses the ultimate power and control over the successful completion of the specific task or deliverable.
Consulted. The individuals in question lack the authority to make the decision, however, it is your responsibility to gather their input prior to finalizing the decision, as you are keen on hearing their perspectives. The team will consult someone who possesses unique insights.
Informed: Who are the individuals that need to be informed about the decision? When it comes to sharing information, it is preferable to make sure that too many people are informed rather than too few, in order to avoid any potential gaps in communication.
The use of this model can significantly enhance your ability to make prompt decisions and implement them with optimal effectiveness.
Once you have made a decision, it is important to move forward and take action. In life, there will be moments where you may find yourself wishing for an opportunity to redo something or realizing that it didn't go exactly as planned. However, it's important not to dwell on the "what ifs".
Instead of viewing failures as setbacks, strive to extract valuable insights from them and store those lessons in your collection of wisdom, ready to be utilized in future endeavors.
When it comes to the basic components of effective decision-making, it's all about making choices and progressing forward.
The goal of implementing the RACI model is to bring structure and clarity to the roles of stakeholders involved.
Hi, I’m Wajid Khan. I am trying to explain computer stuff in a simple and engaging manner, so that even non-techies can easily understand, and delivered to your inbox biweekly.
