Strategic Planning 2021: How to make decisions in unstable scenarios?

Every day, in our personal lives or in the corporate world, we need to make several decisions, from the simplest to the most complex.

In companies, many decisions can also impact the health and future of the business, whether they are to solve problems or seize opportunities.

It is important that the decision-making process is well aligned with the strategic planning of the company, allowing for more informed and safer choices in the short, medium and long term, in addition to ensuring the competitiveness of the business.

After all, change is a constant factor in the corporate world, and can arise from economic, behavioral, environmental, political, or cultural issues. Therefore, companies need to be aware of their macro environment and the potential scenarios it brings.

This forward-looking approach is essential in the corporate world, as it allows for more time for preparation and planning, which, when faced with situations of crisis, can become a great competitive differentiator.

With the changes imposed by the pandemic caused by the new coronavirusFor example, how many companies have had to quickly adapt and change, including their business models? Scenarios of uncertainty and instability are quite challenging, especially for micro and small businesses (MSBs).

Scenario analysis is an important ally in identifying “possible futures,” allowing companies to prepare through strategic planning.

We've put together some tips to help you with your decision-making process when faced with unstable scenarios:

Count on data support

Intuition and experience are great allies in decision-making. But in the corporate world, we need to rely on database reliable to provide support, especially in unstable scenarios, which require even more caution on the part of the manager.

Watch your speed

Unstable or crisis scenarios often require quick (and assertive) responses. Great caution is needed to ensure speedy decision-making, but avoid acting rashly, which can often end up causing damage and requiring remedial solutions.

Study the movements around you

Keeping an eye on market trends and conducting research with other companies (benchmarking) can help develop new strategies and create space for innovation. Another interesting alternative may be to seek external help, with market professionals who understand your segment well through consulting services, or even internally, by creating multidisciplinary teams with employees from different areas.

Monitor the results of your decisions

The problem doesn't end once the decision is made. It's important to be vigilant in evaluating the effectiveness of the solutions defined and, if necessary, change some aspect of the strategy to ensure greater effectiveness and prevent unwanted impacts.

Some steps can be followed to help make safer decisions:

• Perception of the problem or opportunity;
• Analysis and definition;
• Definition of objectives and goals to be followed;
• Search for alternative solutions or courses of action;
• Evaluation and comparison of alternatives;
• Implementation of the chosen alternative.