Make decisions while keeping unknowns visible

Consider decisions with incomplete information through known facts, unknowns and postponement.

What to compare

Compare acknowledging ignorance, gathering information and avoiding a rushed decision.

1 / 3
Knowing and not knowing
Read the distinction between knowing and not knowing.
A question to follow
Are verified facts separated from guesses used to complete the story?
2 / 3
The use of spies: information from people
Consider information obtained from people and the field.
A question to follow
Where could information that changes the decision be checked lawfully?
3 / 3
Grounded judgment
Read grounded judgment against the pressure to conclude quickly.
A question to follow
Can decisions needed now be separated from those that can wait?

Make a note separating known facts, hypotheses, unknowns and the decision deadline.

Sunzi’s account of information does not authorize surveillance or unlawful collection.

3 readings
Choose how to compete before committing
Read conditions, objectives and alliances before choosing a price cut or another feature.
3 readings
Connect learning to understanding and checking
When collecting knowledge stalls, distinguish learning, reflection and checking.
3 readings
Decide what to delegate and how to support it
Read these chapters when delegation keeps turning into more instructions.
3 readings
Review evaluation standards and how to explain them
When an evaluation lacks acceptance, separate judgments about people, procedures and allocation.
3 readings
Choose what to change and what to retain
When initiatives and rules keep growing, read through addition, reduction and sequence.
3 readings
Work on a relationship before conflict escalates
Read when disagreement is turning into judgments about a person or a contest to win.
3 readings
Carry work through to a sustainable finish
Distinguish prolonged work, missing support and gaps in completion.

Sources