downwind, many of the acronyms used in decision-making training are extensions of problem solving routines. They do not represent the usual decision making practices required in aviation particularly where there are critical time or stress issues. However, acronyms provide a useful structure for learning the components and considerations required in actual decision making, which in its ultimate form is a skill.
Skills have to be developed and continuously refined with practice until the behaviour becomes natural.
Skilled behaviour is one indication of the difference between a novice (using decision aids) and an expert, however as there are few real ‘experts’ in aviation, practical decision-making often uses a mix of decision aids (rules, procedures), and expertise, depending on the situation, time, and resources available. See refs below.
Minimise your ‘tactical decisions’ with good planning, thinking ahead – strategic decision making – that’s more like problem solving, but not always with a real problem – what if.
Sciolistes - "Crew Decisions".
No, I disagree, particularly where as individuals we must take responsibility for our decisions – the Captain is always accountable. By all means solicit information and suggestions from the ‘crew’ or SOPs. The Captain then has to use his skills (experience) to balance influences, bias, or erroneous views from others; but the Captain always decides.
Practical refs:-
Academic refs (but of value):-