Smart Choices, by Hammond, Keeney, and Raiffa

Context

I read this many months ago, I’m writing this based on dipping back into it, and some notes I made at the time.

Overall… it feels like a useful methodology, but - as is often the case with this kind of work - it feels like a pamphlet turned into a book, because this is the kind of size and format of book that customers, and publishers, want.

Some highlights

There are useful points made throughout, for example, when faced with an important decision, on defining your actual objective and the means to get it, and realising the difference between the two. For example, the difference between wanting an attractive and comfortable interior to your new car, and buying it with leather seats. And, as I say, the importance of separating the two.

Similarly, on really understanding constraints in your decision making. Using the same example - does your 17 foot garage stop you buying an 18 foot long car… or do you just park it somewhere else, or extend your garage, or some other option.

Another good point - do your own thinking first about a problem before you consult other sources or authorities. This is a good way to avoid “anchoring bias”, as your requirements and conditions set your initial position that’s the best way forward.

I like this push to thinking harder, but… overall the process feels unnecessarily laborious, and much shorter guides or even flowcharts could have been provided with optional additional details.

Overall

Don’t read this book now… but if you’ve some big decisions in your life coming up, maybe buy it now? Some of it is relatively obvious, the overall method is particularly involved for anything that isn’t significant, but it’s well put so you could work through it when a lot is at stake.