The traditional decision-making process has nine steps:

• Recognize that a problem exists and set a solution objective.
• Analyze the situation.
• Identify key uncertainties.
• Determine workable solutions and perhaps brainstorm for alternatives.
• Gather data, perhaps using "expert" help. Analyze which alternative might work best given the specific problem and your particular environment.
• Select the best (most workable) alternative.
• Develop a plan for implementation and action.
• Implement the plan.
• Follow up to see how the decision worked out and to evaluate its effectiveness in solving the problem.