Research and Decision Making
As we work to improve the decision making process and its ensuing consequences, we should really aim to understand the context, environment, and factors that may impact (or be impacted by) the decisions we make. In conducting strategic planning sessions, making preparations for programming, or assessing needs within our communities, research is a critical element to allow our organizations and boards to make informed decisions.
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Comments
I just found your blog as a result of reading the Gift Hub blog. You asked, "how do researchers fit in". I think researchers are critically important because until we map the networks and visions of donors, non profits, businesses, etc. others won't be able to use this information to make better decsions.
Maps can be concept maps, or geographic maps. I use both. A growing number of people seem to be using concept maps, and Google maps are becoming widely used to find existing information.
However, as an analysis tool, and a guide for decision making, I think we have a long way to go, and researchers can contribute much to this. You can see how I use maps for decsion support in the Program Locator section of http://www.tutormentorconnection.org.
Posted by: Dan Bassill | July 28, 2007 09:24 AM