Here's how you can make unbiased, objective decisions as an IT consultant in strategic situations.

1 Gather Data

Before you can make any decision, you need comprehensive data. Begin by collecting all relevant information about the IT situation at hand. This includes technical specifications, user requirements, financial constraints, and any other pertinent details. Ensure that your data collection methods are systematic to avoid inadvertently favoring one aspect over another. Solid data is the foundation of any objective decision-making process.

2 Analyze Options

With data in hand, turn your focus to analyzing the possible options. Break down each potential solution by its pros and cons, taking care to weigh them against the strategic goals of the project. This step is about understanding the implications of each choice and how they align with the client's objectives. It's also an opportunity to identify any risks associated with the options, which is crucial for making an informed decision.

3 Seek Advice

It's beneficial to seek the perspectives of others when faced with strategic decisions. Consult with colleagues or industry peers who can provide insights that you may not have considered. This doesn't mean you should follow their advice blindly, but rather use it to challenge your own thinking and ensure you're not overlooking any critical factors. Remember, the goal is to gather diverse viewpoints, not to find someone to make the decision for you.

4 Use Frameworks

Decision-making frameworks can be incredibly helpful in guiding you through the process. Whether it's a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) or a decision matrix, these tools help structure your thinking and ensure that you're evaluating each option against a consistent set of criteria. They serve as a checkpoint to keep personal biases at bay and focus on what's best for the client.

5 Reflect Objectively

Take a step back and reflect on your potential decision. Consider whether you've given undue weight to certain data points or options based on personal preferences or experiences. Strive for objectivity by questioning your assumptions and verifying that your decision is based on facts and strategic alignment, not on gut feelings or inclinations. This reflective pause is crucial for unbiased decision-making.

6 Implement Decisions

Finally, once you've made your decision, it's time to implement it with confidence and clarity. Ensure that your actions are transparent and that you can articulate the rationale behind your choice to stakeholders. Effective implementation is as important as the decision itself because it demonstrates your commitment to an unbiased approach and sets the stage for successful project outcomes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?