Natural Resource Structured Decision Making
Natural resource management decisions can be extremely difficult to make because of the complexity of conflicting environmental, regulatory, and economic risks/benefits associated with a host of alternatives. Cardno ENTRIX routinely uses structured decision making (SDM) to help our clients evaluate and weigh different natural resource options and consequences, and ultimately establish an effective framework for making stronger, well-informed decisions (see figure below).
SDM encompasses a simple set of concepts and helpful steps, rather than a rigidly-prescribed approach, for problem solving. Key SDM elements include making decisions based on clearly articulated objectives, addressing uncertainty, and responding transparently to legal mandates and public preferences or values. Thus, SDM integrates both science and policy, which is essential when making decisions regarding natural resource management.
Using SDM, the decision process consists of several primary elements: management objectives, decision options, and predictions of decision outcomes. By analyzing each component separately and thoughtfully within a comprehensive decision framework, it is possible to improve the quality of decision-making. While the SDM approach can be used for any type of decision, it is particularly useful for complex natural resource challenges where public sector decisions involve multiple decision makers and stakeholders with diverse objectives, goals and perspectives. Click here to read more about SDM, or click here to learn more about how Cardno ENTRIX uses multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) tools to aid this process.
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