Question

What are the six links in the decision quality chain? Which is the most important link from a systems engineering perspective? Why is the analogy of a chain used?

Answer 1

The links in the Decision Quality Chain are:

1. Helpful Framework: Having the appropriate frame ensures the right decision problem is addressed. The decision-makers should be aligned in terms of purpose, perspective, and scope.
2. Creative Alternatives: The decision should be better than the best available alternatives. Quality in options is achieved by applying a suitable options generation process, where the process itself leads to a variety of feasible and diverse alternatives.
3. Useful Information: The quality of a decision depends on the quality of the information to inform the decision-makers. Quality in information is achieved when the information is meaningful and reliable, is based on appropriate data and judgment, reflects all uncertainties, biases, intangibles, and interdependencies.
4. Clear Values: This is characterized by transparent value metrics, a clear line of sight of the primary metric, and explicit trade-off rules between key metrics.
5. Sound Reasoning: This element is the domain of decision analysis, which aims to produce insight. Decision analysis provides the logic and tools to find the best choice in a complex situation and should serve as a guide to facilitate the decision-making process.
6. Commitment to Action: A good decision depends on the commitment to act on the decision that is taken. An effective decision-making process should involve key stakeholders.

From a Systems Engineering perspective, Helpful Framework is the most important link in the Decision Quality Chain as both involve clear purpose, perspective, and scope.

We represent these elements as links in a chain because a decision is only as strong as the weakest link. If each element is strong, the decision is of high quality. Hence, we can use the chain as a checklist in gauging the quality of a decision that is being taken.