a positive determination about a specific
effect. That decision is made based on
experience and knowledge of potential
results, and to take that particular action
will produce the desired result. The boater
then Acts on that decision, making a physical
input to cause the vessel to react in the
desired fashion.
Once the loop has been completed,
the boater is once again in the Observe
position. The assessment of the resulting
action is added to the previously perceived
aspects of the cruise to further define the
vessel’s progress. The advantage of the
OODA Loop model is that it may be cumulative,
as well as having the potential of
allowing for multiple progressions to occur
at any given point in the cruise.
The DECIDE Model
Using the acronym “DECIDE,” the sixstep
process DECIDE Model is another
continuous loop process that provides the
pilot with a logical way of making decisions.
DECIDE means to Detect, Estimate,
Choose a course of action, Identify solutions,
Do the necessary actions, and Evaluate
the effects of the actions.
Detect (the Problem)
Problem detection is the first step in the
decision-making process. It begins with
recognizing a change occurred or an
expected change did not occur. A problem
is perceived first by the senses and then it
is distinguished through insight and experience.
These same abilities, as well as an
objective analysis of all available information,
are used to determine the nature and
severity of the problem.
Estimate (the Need To React)
In many cases, overreaction and fixation
excludes a safe outcome. For example, loss
of the engine while transiting coastal waters
is cause for concern, however simple readiness,
like having an anchor ready for letting
go and using it, allows time for the PIC to
use DM skills.
Choose (a Course of Action)
After the problem has been identified
and its impact estimated, the boater must
determine the desirable outcome and
choose a course of action. In the case of the
engine failure, the PIC by use of the anchor
to remain clear of shoal water, efficiently
made time to analyze the engine problem.
Identify (Solutions)
The PIC formulates a plan that will take
him or her to the objective. Sometimes,
there may be only one course of action
available. It is important for the boater not
to become fixated on the process to the
exclusion of making a decision.
Do (the Necessary Actions)
Once pathways to resolution are identified,
the PIC selects the most suitable one for the
situation. A boat with twin engines may
allow continued and safe passage on a single
engine.
Evaluate (the Effect of the Action)
Finally, after implementing a solution,
evaluate the decision to see if it was correct.
If the action taken does not provide the
desired results, the process may have to be
repeated.
DECISION-MAKING –
DYNAMIC ENVIRONMENT
The common approach to decision-making
has been through the use of analytical models
such as 5P, 3P, OODA, and DECIDE.
Good decisions result when boaters gather
all available information, review it, analyze
the options, rate the options, select a course
of action, and evaluate that course of action
for correctness.
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