The horrific explosion of the Shuttle Challenger occurred not because of a faulty
O ring, but rather faulty decision-making.
On the eve of the scheduled blast off, a group of intelligent experts engaged in a dialogue to determine if the Challenger should be launched. There were many pressures and historic organizational practices complicating the situation. There had been more publicity than usual; the whole world would be watching as the first teacher was to enter space. There were significant financial concerns, even threats to the existence of the space program. And there were political forces with which to contend.
It is all too possible for a group of intelligent and well-intentioned individuals to make a flawed decision. And that’s no laughing matter. However, if your culture is one that encourages humor, healthy humor, it will make way for the important things to be said and heard.
| Reduce the risk of costly decisions by: |
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Understanding group dynamics.
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Managing external influences.
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Adopting a solid decision-making process.
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