How Great Decisions Get Made: 10 Easy Steps for Reaching Agreement on Even the Toughest Issues

Step #1: Enlist Everyone: Invite Hidden as Well as Visible Talent and Avoid Creating Enemies

Tough Issue: Computer System Can't Get off the Ground

Tough Issue: $250 Million Project Hits Wall of Resistance

Step #2: Discover Shared Hopes: Multiply Your Prospects for Success

Tough Issue: Owner's Expectations Stifle Business

Tough Issue: Demanding Objectives Need Broad Support

Step #3: Uncover the Real Issues: Listen to Thoughts and Feelings

Tough Issue: Difficult Client Won't Stop Talking

Step #4: Identify all Options: See the Whole Tree before You Go Out on a Limb

Tough Issue: Intermittent Breakdowns Cost Millions

Step #5: Gather the Right Information: Look Through the Lens of Your Hopes

Tough Issue: Deeply Divided Interests Try to Work Together

Step #6: Get Everything on the Table: 100 Percent Information, Zero Percent Debate

Tough Issue: Future Products for a Billion-Dollar Company

Tough Issue: Developing an Organizational Growth Plan with Many Players

Step #7: Write Down Choices that Support Shared Hopes: Take the Guesswork Out of Decisions

Tough Issue: Picking the Best Idea

Step #8: Map the Solutions: See Clear Results

Tough Issue: Reaching Agreement on Future Products

Step #9: Look Ahead: Be Prepared with Alternatives

Tough Issue: The Software Solution Needs Modification

Step #10: Stay Charged Up: Celebrate Results and Renew Your Hopes

Tough Issue: How to Recognize Successful Results

Tough Issue: How to Sustain Progress and Fulfill Your Hopes