The decision-making process: Implications for the medical school organization

In this article, the authors make use of some contemporary models of decision-making to show how the process of decision-making can become more self-conscious, and thus both more enlightened and more assured. The approach is an examination of several models examined both from the perspective of the steps in the process itself, as well as general observations about the decision-making process. The practical focus is on the medical school organization with its unique characteristics. This article also examines the decision-making process through a comparison of two types of organizational structure (pyramidal and matrix) found in most medical schools.

Certain constants emerge from this article that positively enhance good decision-making. These elements are:

• (1)

  the rapidity of change;

• (2)

  the critical need for a wide range of alternatives;

• (3)

  an understanding of both the organizational structure and human factors involved; and

• (4)

  the necessity of involving others in the decision-making process.

By analyzing various modes of decision-making and presenting options, this article should be of real assistance to administrators.