12Decision‐Making and Problem Solving
12.1 Introduction
As has been frequently stated in this book, the engineering development process revolves around iteration and learning. New facts are continually emerging, and therefore decisions are constantly being made. Problem solving and decision‐making are, from one point of view, just everyday elements of technology development work. Some of these decisions will be minor and hardly be recognised as decisions at all. Others will be substantial, requiring careful thought and objective analysis before a conclusion is reached.
The ability to apply the mind well and solve problems is vital to work of this nature. The processes of ‘critical thinking’ are therefore very relevant.
However, reaching the right decision, if there is such a thing, may not be quite as straightforward as might be thought. As will be shown, the human decision‐making process is subject to all sorts of biases and prejudices that get in the way of choosing the best way forward.
Research in the field of behavioural economics has provided some of the best insights into how the human mind works in this respect. This research has shown that human beings, when presented with ‘rational’ economic choices, behave far from rationally. The findings of this research apply across the spectrum of human endeavour, but particularly to technology work.
The other field that impinges on technology work is statistics. ‘Statistical thinking’ has revolutionised the approach to manufacturing ...