Difference Between Decision Making and Problem Solving

Decision Making vs Problem Solving

Decision Making and Problem Solving are two key management functions. It is customary to see the managers of companies to get involved in decision making and problem solving. Problem solving involves defining the problem. The problem is defined by asking a few questions such as ‘what causes you to think there is a problem?’ and ‘how is it happening?’

Consideration of the situation characterized by the absence of the problem is the crux of decision making. In other words if you begin to think about what will the situation look like when the problem is solved then you are into decision making. Hence decision making and problem solving are almost integrated.

Problem solving consists in looking at the potential causes of the problem. On the other hand decision making consists in the method of approaching to resolve the problem. You will have to involve in brainstorm to find out solutions to the problem in decision making. Lateral and creative thinking is important in good decision making.

Decision making in short can be called as the process of action plan. Action plan includes the calculation of the time needed to solve the problem. It also looks at the time needed for the implementation of the solution. It deals finally with the communication of the plan to all those involved in the implementation of the solution.

Problem solving consists in jotting down the description of the various causes of the problem in terms of question such as where, how, with whom and why. Decision making is all about finding solutions to all these questions such as how, where, with whom and why through the forming a plan that has to be implemented.

Problem solving itself is an experience to be undergone in every corporate establishment. Decision making on the other hand is the consideration of what have you learned from problem solving. Hence problem solving and decision making are integrated to a great extent.