Decision analysis and review is the process that is followed, whether well or ill defined, when options exist and a choice must be made. That is, a decision of some sort is required.

Typically, pertinent factors are considered, weighed in contrast to each other and the overall objective.  The outcome is usually chosen because it best supports the desired results. 

Level of Rigor

The amount of effort put into the decision process can vary depending on the magnitude of the impact and the urgency.  Ultimately though the chances of positive outcomes rises with the level of rigor applied. 

The methodology for interpreting the decision influencing factors can cover the spectrum from clearly defined measurable attributes (e.g., it is 10 inches long) to subject intangible factors, important but less quantifiable. 

The subjective factors can be influenced by emotions.  Basically, the criteria applied is based on the questions “How do I feel about this?”  This is a basic human behaviour, that is emotions overriding logic. 

How do I feel/ What do I think?

The quality of a decision is very much dependent on the balance between how you feel about something and the tangible measures – reality.  Once the tangible versus the intangible are tallied, there is still the ultimate decision process itself which often favors the emotional. 

For the best decisions, regardless of impact and time constraints attempting to place a lower priority on the emotional aspects, at least initially, allows for the reasoned solution to appear first, the emotional filters can then be applied – they are relevant and important.  

This approach will ensure the decision was arrived at with a conscious understanding of how much was measured and how much was emoted.