Quick decision-making is one of the hallmarks of an agile company.  But making fast decisions is easier said than done. A recent McKinsey and Company article looks at three types of decisions and offers ways to speed up the process.

  • For Big-Bet decisions made at the very top, like making an acquisition, spur productive debate.  Assign someone to argue the case for and against. This brings about productive interactions with a balance of inquiry and advocacy.
  • For Cross-Cutting decisions made by unit heads and senior managers, make the process about clarifying objectives, measures and targets.  Draw a clear line between meetings designed to inform or discuss, and meetings designed to make decisions. 
  • Delegated decisions are frequent and effect day-to-day, routine operations.  Working teams and individuals should drive these decisions. Aim for the team’s commitment rather than pure consensus.
Click here for the complete McKinsey article.