Chapter 2. Clarity

A key starting point for any decision-making is clarity. Achieving clarity embraces several steps including: objectivity about the issue, defining the problem well, being clear on the context, sound analysis, focused objectives, defined options and sound risk analysis. It also involves handling complexity, living with compromises and working through consequences. Clarity is about trying to find simplicity in the face of complexity and knowing when to say enough information is enough.

Figure 2.1 sets out a sequence of steps to help ensure clarity in decision-making. This sequence is built around three, key defining areas of clarity: the issue, the analysis and the way ahead. It is rarely a straightforward progression through these ...

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