Decision-Making Model — Vroom-Yetton-Jago Levels I-III
Vroom-Yetton-Jago Foundation
V-Y-J Foundation
There are a wide range of decision-making models available for leaders, whether in the military or corporate structure.
Adopted by Military
V-Y-J Adopted
One decision-making model that has been adopted by the military is the Vroom-Yetton-Jago Decision-Making Model, used for deciding how to decide.
Five Primary Levels
5 V-Y-J Levels
According to this model, there are five primary levels of decision-making, each requiring a different level of involvement or complexity for the decision-making process.
Level I: Decide and Announce
Level I Definition
In this level, leaders make the decision and announce or present it to the group or organization.
Level I Pros
Level I Pros
This approach can allow leaders to make and implement decisions quickly, but to avoid possible indifference or lack of motivation, the leader controls the decision and the situation.
Level I Process
Level I Process
Leaders should explain rationale as to why the decision was made unilaterally.
Level I Cons
Level I Cons.
- Leaders may not take the time to consider all the necessary information
- By not including others in the decision-making process, leaders may alienate members of the group or organization unnecessarily
Level II: Gather Input from Individuals and Decide
Level II Definition
In this level, leaders gather input from selected individuals, or the group individually, and then make the decision.
Level II Pros
Level II Pros
This approach can allow leaders to:
- Consult with recognized experts to gather additional information to make a more informed decision
- Does not require a meeting with the entire group
Level II Cons
Level II Cons.
- Others in the group may wonder why the leader did not consult with them
- They may perceive the leader as playing favorites, which could result in some resistance from the group or organization when it comes time to implement the decision
Level III: Gather Input from the Group and Decide
Level III Definition
In this level, leaders gather input from the group and then make a decision.
Level III Pros
Level III Pros
This approach of including the group in gathering the data:
- Enhances the chance for synergy
- Better-informed decision-making
Level III Cons
Level III Cons
If a leader makes a decision different from what the group suggests:
- The group may feel that their inputs or suggestions were not valued or appreciated
- The group may feel that the decision-making process was predetermined by the leader and that the interaction was a façade
- This will likely result in members of the group undermining implementation or being unwilling to participate in future decisions
Level III Time Cost
Also, this approach does take more time for the leader to make the decision.