Rational decision-making is coming to a certain decision on a particular matter using objective knowledge and logic rather than intuitions and emotions. Applying this method allows the person to come up with the most logical conclusion, as well as identify the costs and benefits of the choices being made (Uzonwanne, 2016). Currently, I am trying to make a decision on which car to buy. The first step will be identifying the problem, which for me is the decision to make about buying a car. To achieve the most logical decision, I will use the five steps in rational decision-making, which include identifying criteria and goals, assigning weight to the criteria, generating and evaluating alternatives, ranking the alternatives, and making a decision.
First, I had to identify the criteria and the goals I hoped to achieve by purchasing the vehicle. Generally, I need to find a car that is the best for me in terms of money, safety, and comfort and will serve me for a long time. This step requires doing a thorough research and investigating the decision one is about to make. The criteria used often reflect the decision maker’s core values and impact the decision’s outcome. My decision criteria will be cost, safety, comfort, and reliability. This helps me identify what is relevant in the decision-making.
The next step will be assigning weight to the criteria identified. This is done to help the decision-maker recognize the most important factors to consider during the whole process (Uzonwanne, 2016). At this point, one realizes the correct priorities to use when making the decision. In my case, I will consider the price of the vehicle, safety, durability, gas mileage, and comfort, all in the order of priority. I need a car that fits my budget but also fits all other criteria used without compromising the decision-making process. In consideration of the criteria used, I narrowed my choices to a 2014 Toyota Camry, a 2019 Toyota Highlander, and a 2012 Chrysler 200.
The fourth step in the whole process involves coming up with alternatives that may help conclude. It is done with the aim of providing evidence on why one can help reach one’s goal or overcome obstacles. For my car purchase decision-making process, I will consider other alternatives such as test driving the vehicle, damages, color, total mileage, and the interior. All these alternatives will ensure my decision has more benefits than the cost and is logical. After identifying the other options, it is best to rank them and determine which ones best suit the decision to be made. After careful consideration, I will consider the car with the least mileage on it, one I can comfortably handle during the test drive, and also lacks any form of damage, and with nice colors, such as silver or black.
Finally, once everything has been considered and evaluated, the decision is made utilizing objective knowledge and logic gathered. After gathering all the information and going through each car’s pros and cons, I decided to go with the black 2019 Toyota Highlander. Despite being expensive compared to the other two vehicles, I chose it for its more significant qualities. The car has a low total mileage, is smoother on the road, and a good gas mileage. It is also in an excellent state, meaning it will be durable if well-maintained.
References
Uzonwanne, F.C. (2016). Rational Model of Decision Making. In: Farazmand, A. (eds) Global Encyclopedia of Public Administration, Public Policy, and Governance. Springer, Cham. Web.