Decision Behaviour, Analysis and Support

Description

Behavioural studies have shown that while humans may be the best decision makers on the planet, we are not quite as good as we think we are. We are regularly subject to biases, inconsistencies and irrationalities in our decision making. Decision Behaviour, Analysis and Support explores perspectives from many different disciplines to show how we can help decision makers to deliberate and make better decisions. It considers both the use of computers and databases to support decisions as well as human aids to building analyses and some fast and frugal tricks to aid more consistent decision making. In its exploration of decision support it draws together results and observations from decision theory, behavioural and psychological studies, artificial intelligence and information systems, philosophy, operational research and organisational studies. This provides a valuable resource for managers with decision-making responsibilities and students from a range of disciplines, including management, engineering and information systems.

Simon French is Professor of Information and Decision Sciences at Manchester Business School, The University of Manchester. John Maule is Professor of Human Decision Making and Director of the Centre for Decision Research at Leeds University Business School, University of Leeds. Nadia Papamichail is Senior Lecturer in Information and Decision Systems at Manchester Business School, The University of Manchester.

'Decision analysis has evolved in recent years to be increasingly synthetic, and this text is an impressive achievement in bringing together the diverse ingredients. It is highly recommended as a timely, integrated and practical course book.' Derek W. Bunn, London Business School 'This text makes a valuable contribution to the literature in decision making. The explicit goal of the authors has been to help the reader to understand the multifaceted field and learn the essentials in practical decision support. There is a balanced coverage of both descriptive and normative models with a strong emphasis on the process. The discussion of the social aspects and methods of participation in decision support contributes to the understanding of the big picture of this important field. The comprehensive list of up-to-date references gives the interested reader easy access to current research in the area.' Raimo P. Hamalainen, Helsinki University of Technology 'The authors lead us in an exciting waltz through descriptive, prescriptive and normative models for decision aid. Other authors have addressed all three approaches, but none have woven together such a tapestry in which each modelling approach informs and is informed by the other approaches. Between them, the authors bring together expertise from a wide range of disciplines ranging from quantitative analysis, information systems and cognitive psychology. The text is a must for those wishing to gain comprehensive understanding of the subtleties of decision science.' Theo Stewart, University of Cape Town 'Decision Behaviour, Analysis and Support provides a valuable resource for all involved in the decision making process. Certainly, managers with decision making responsibilities at any level of an organization would benefit from this comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of decision science.' International Journal of Strategic Decision Sciences