Critical Thinking and Managerial Decision Making

This reflective essay focuses on critically reviewing different theories and evaluating practical applications of theoretical underpinnings while understanding personal strengths and weaknesses and generating a plan for self-development. The essay covers key concepts and theories such as Johari Window, Self Efficacy Theory, Decision Making Concepts, Game Theory, Critical Thinking Framework, Critical Thinking Tools, Deductive versus Inductive Reasoning/Arguments, and Triangular Thinking. The author reflects on the impact of these concepts on personal decision making and future development.

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Assessment Tile: Critical Thinking and Managerial Decision Making
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Introduction
The reflective essay focuses on to critically review the different theories that have been studied
along the period. Further, it would focus on evaluating the practical applications of the
theoretical underpinnings while also in understanding personal strengths and weaknesses and
thereby generate a plan for self development.
Critical Review of Key Concepts/Theories
Johari Window
The concept of Johari Window was first introduced by Joseph Luft and his partner Harry Ingham
during 1955. The same is reflected below.

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(Apricot Training Management Ltd., 2013)
The above theory gains needed significance from the individual point-of-view in that it
contributes in the development of self awareness, helps in improving communication with others,
develops interpersonal relationships based on self understanding both from the views of self and
others, helps in working in a team framework and also contributes in team development,
enhances the level of inter and intra-group dynamics and also fosters group relationships (West

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& Turner, 2010). Further, Johari Window as a model stresses on the development of soft skill
sets like behavioral patterns, empathy, increasing co-operation and also helps in developing both
along inter-group and interpersonal levels (Apricot Training Management Ltd., 2013).
Theory of Self Efficacy
The theory of self efficacy was introduced by Albert Bandura. He pointed to around four
different sources of beliefs regarding self efficacy. The ‘Mastery Experiences’ indicate the use of
potential effort for overcoming difficulties and thereby gaining needed mastery over a specific
task or situation. In terms of ‘Vicarious Experiences’ self efficacy is developed through
following role models such that it motivates individuals to exploit their capabilities for gaining
mastery (Barrett, 2011). It helps in triggering needed confidence in an individual. Evaluation of
emotional states in an individual reflects that the incidence of depression tends to affect one’s
capabilities and thereby affects the performances. Finally, the role of teachers and coaches are
also indicated wherein persuasion generated by them actively helps an individual in putting their
best for gaining success in their life and career (Schwarzer, 2014).
Decision Making Concepts
The decision making model ideally contributes in understanding the different types of decision-
making patterns associated to diverse environments like simple, complex, complicated and also
chaotic. In simpler environments the need for development of communication channels, letting
go of assumptions and also in following set of good practices are highlighted. In complicated
environments the need for involving both internal and external stakeholder groups and also the
incorporation of tools for encouraging people do out-of-the-box thinking is emphasized (Saha,
2013). Similarly, in cases of complex environments, the need for different approaches is stressed

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for development of interactions between stakeholders for generation of new patterns. It also
requires the development of needed patience. Finally, in terms of operating in a chaotic setting it
is recommended to understand and implement the best method that works rather than focusing on
gaining effective answers. It also requires the undertaking of instantaneous action for setting of
order and also in generating clarity in communication practices (Sicina, 2017).
Game Theory and Right Game
The aspect of Game Theory gains needed significance in that it helps in both understanding and
also developing strategic interactions in a setting involving two or more people. It helps an
individual in understanding and also evaluating the different types of strategic choices available
in the hands of others and the type of impact, positive or negative that may come out as
consequences of employing such choices. The application of the game theory can thus be
effectively made in understanding and also in evaluating the decision that ought to be undertaken
by individuals in diverse situations (Knoop, 2017).
Critical Thinking Framework
The critical thinking framework requires an individual to focus on the aspect of clarity while
taking needed decisions. Focusing on the dimension of clarity is taken to help in arriving
conclusions in a faster fashion and thereby contributes in taking decisions in a concerted and
more accurate fashion. The critical thinking framework is identified as under.

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(Kallet & Kallet, 2014)
The parameter of clarity reflects on generating clear directions and also in developing clarity of
concepts. Clarity of concepts and directions ideally contribute in rendering effective solutions
identified as conclusions. Finally, based on the different types of solutions/conclusions the
decision is required to be undertaken to identify an effective solution. Herein, the chain of clarity
to decision making is encompassed by diverse critical thinking based tools and other techniques
that contributes in the generation of effective decisions, development of problem-solving abilities
and also in rendering innovative results (Kallet & Kallet, 2014).
Critical Thinking Tools
Three different critical thinking tools contribute in the generation of creative insights and
solutions than merely focusing on drawing potential conclusions and taking decisions thereof.
The three different critical thinking techniques identified are impossible and abductive thinking
and finally thinking outside-the-box.

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(Kallet & Kallet, 2014)
Herein, impossible and abductive thinking contribute in moving beyond the regular boundaries
of thinking and thereby in generating effective and innovative solutions. Abductive thinking
focuses on generating a mix of both experienced mind and also creative and fresh mindset for
bringing out effective solutions laden with needed potentials. Impossible thinking focuses on
moving beyond traditional and pre-conceived solutions to uncharted territories. The out-of-the-
box thinking is considered the most innovative thinking technique for its goal directedness
approach. It thereby requires the development of a structured thinking approach meant for
achieving specific goals (Walton, 2014). Further, the out-of-the-box approach to thinking
encourages the individuals to potentially brainstorm and encounter different types of ideas that
tend to emerge along the path. Finally, it also encourages the individuals to think in a wilder and
extended fashion not sticking to regional and geographical boundaries and stereotypic processes
(Kallet & Kallet, 2014).

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Deductive versus Inductive Reasoning/Arguments
In case of deductive reasoning, the individual carrying out the reasoning or argument based on
first identifying a general statement and thereby in identifying different types of alternatives or
possibilities for arriving at effective conclusions. Deductive approach is undertaken for testing
the different hypotheses and is thereby scientific in nature. On contrary to the narrowing
approach, inductive reasoning focuses on arriving at general conclusions from observed data.
Specific observations are tallied with concepts and understandings to arrive at a newer concept.
Thus, where deductive reasoning is specific and rationalistic in nature inductive reasoning is
generalist in approach (Donovan, 2014).
Concept of Triangular Thinking
The triangulated thinking and decision making approach focuses on amalgamating the data
gained based on observations and interviews with that gained based on the conducting of survey
activity. It thus contributes in the joint incorporation of both qualitative and quantitative data sets
to produce quality and enriched inferences. The triangular approach thus contributes in carrying
out effective evaluation of an event or situation and thereby in generating in-depth inferences
based on conducting a holistic study of interview and survey data sets. Triangulated approach of
thinking/decision making also focuses on gaining inferences from an external angle like
consumers along with that gained from colleagues and from personal viewpoints. It not only
helps in empowering customers in participating in decision making but also helps in gaining a
holistic outlook (Lepore & Ludwig, 2013).
Reflection on course impact in personal decision making

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Impact of the Johari Window
The application of the Johari Window reflects that I have the potential in working in a flexible
fashion, empathizing with subordinates and colleagues and fulfill commitments both at
workplace and also at my personal level. However, I did not have knowledge regarding my
effective decision making potential, power of observation and ability to effectively blend with
both known and unknown people. I was also aware of my growing inner potentials and
competencies that provide me with needed self confidence in handling numerous tasks.
Impact of Self Efficacy Theory
The impact of the self efficacy theory on my career and personality development reflects that of
late my level of self awareness has increased which in turn helps in effective accomplishment of
my personal and career oriented objectives in a focused fashion. Further, meeting with industry
professionals in workshops and seminars helped me in boosting my personal confidence
regarding communication, grooming and other soft skills. My tutors also encouraged me in
taking part in teams which helped me to work in a team environment and develop interpersonal
communication skills. Further, during internship and training periods I learnt to manage
workplace stress which helped me to battle periods of self procrastination.
Impact of the Decision Making Concept
In terms of best practices, I need to give up my sense of complacency and focus on developing
communication channels both within the group and the department for effective reporting.
Further, it is required that I remain open and flexible to new ideas emerging in the marketplace. I
also felt a need for not drawing easy conclusions but rather in evaluating and analyzing the

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situation and thereby make an effective decision. In complex situations I understood that I need
to act patiently to let new patterns and solutions emerge out on their own. In chaotic
circumstances, I understood the precise need for taking care of unstable environments and
shifting them to complex category.
Impact of Game Theory
The application of the game theory indicates that while working in a group framework or in large
organization I need to continually equip myself with potent information that would help in
understanding and also in evaluating the moves that can be taken by my colleagues to excel at
the workplace. In terms of equipping with emerging information I would help in increasing my
competencies to gain career growth.
Impact of the Critical Thinking Framework
I focus on communicating the team and departmental objectives to the group members with also
defined goals such that the same can help them to formulate effective solutions and strategies.
They then focus on designing specific action plans in a collaborative fashion to meet destined
goals.
Impact of Critical Thinking Tools
In terms of working as a department manager in a fashion retail outlet, I encourage my
organizational members to focus on carrying out-of-the-box thinking regarding generation of
new visual merchandising solutions for attracting potential footfalls.
Impact of Deductive Reasoning

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I generally focus on carrying out surveys and thereby in drawing and analyzing quantitative
inferences through the use of statistical and diagrammatic tools for evaluating the research
hypotheses. This helps me in gaining refined and specific inferences.
Impact of the use of Triangular Thinking
In terms of carrying out research on changing buying patterns of customers at the fashion retail
outlet I focused on carrying out observational study of customer visits, interview and research
activity such that the triangulated approach helped in evaluating both qualitative and quantitative
data in arriving at effective inferences regarding offers and promotional techniques to be
incorporated.
Reflection on self-knowledge and future development
My participation in the course activity has helped me to understand that I bear needed strengths
in the dimension of carrying out effective interpersonal relationships with the group members. I
also can effectively socialize with the organizational members and empathize on their needs. I
also focus on taking decisions in a collaborative fashion to enhance team accountability in
meeting stated objectives. However, I understood that I would require focusing on developing
my soft skills potential through enrolling myself in information technology classes for getting
equipped to work in a digital environment. I also need to be an avid listener and continually
focus on developing my knowledge and potentials.
Conclusion
In terms of getting trained in the information technology domain and also through continually
developing my knowledge and competencies in the managerial and communication aspects I

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would be able to hone up my decision making ability. Working in a computerized environment
with knowledge of soft skills I would be able to carry out better analysis and thereby be able to
disseminate the information to potential stakeholders for formulating needed strategies and
action plans. The same would help in developing our strategic position as a team and thereby in
generating better payoffs in the long run.

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References
Apricot Training Management Ltd. (2013, November 10). Understanding the Johari Window
model. Retrieved September 2, 2018, from Self Awareness:
http://www.selfawareness.org.uk/news/understanding-the-johari-window-model
Barrett, R. (2011). The New Leadership Paradigm. United States : Lulu.com.
Donovan, J. (2014). How to Deliver a TED Talk: Secrets of the World's Most Inspiring
Presentations, Revised and Expanded New Edition, with a Foreword by Richard St. John
and an Afterword by Simon Sinek. United Kingdom : McGraw Hill Professional.
Kallet, M. (2014). Think Smarter: Critical Thinking to Improve Problem-Solving and Decision-
Making Skills. United Kingdom : John Wiley and Sons.
Kallet, M., & Kallet, M. (2014). Think Smarter: Critical Thinking to Improve Problem-Solving
and Decision-Making Skills. United Kingdom : John Wiley and Sons .
Knoop, T. A. (2017). The Traveling Economist: Using Economics to Think About What Makes
Us All So Different and the Same. United Kingdom : ABC CLIO.
Lepore, E., & Ludwig, K. (2013). A Companion to Donald Davidson. United Kingdom: John
Wiley and Sons.
Saha, P. (2013). A Systemic Perspective to Managing Complexity with Enterprise Architecture.
United Kingdom : IGI Global.
Schwarzer, R. (2014). Self-Efficacy: Thought Control Of Action. United Kingdom : Taylor and
Francis.

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Sicina, R. V. (2017). Learn from Failure: The Key to Successful Decision Making. United
Kingdom : AuthourHouse.
Walton, D. (2014). Abductive Reasoning. Alabama: University of Alabama Press.
West, R., & Turner, L. (2010). Understanding Interpersonal Communication: Making Choices in
Changing Times, Enhanced Edition. United States : Cengage Learning.