ABSTRACT
This chapter examines each step of the decision-making process. It discusses various theoretical models of decision-making and deals with a discussion of dysfunctional decision-making. The decision process includes the following steps: pinpointing the problem; identifying causes; setting objectives; formulating alternative courses of action; evaluating alternatives against organizational objectives; choosing the best course of action; and implementing and evaluating the decision. Evaluating each course of action against the objectives allows the decision-maker to choose the best course of action. The concept of marginal utility, according to Verne Lewis, brings pure rationality into public decision-making. Relative value, effectiveness, and incremental comparisons should determine which decision alternative is chosen. The incremental model is a more realistic approach to public decision-making, as it provides greater flexibility in coping with time-sensitive policy problems. The political stream represents the pulse of the nation as conveyed through public opinion, election results, or ideological shifts as evidenced through public and special interest campaigns.
