This week I move from process mapping for progress to the use of tools. Decision support tools in fact.

One client I worked with while I was writing my book Team Think had me work with six teams to develop process maps for their key outputs. The teams quickly gained clarity on the reality of how decisions were being made – and where the pitfalls lay. It was an easy step from there to identify where decision makers needed additional support in the form of decision support tools.

Tools make the difference. Not because they replace thinking – but because they structure it.

Risk scoring systems help you weigh the downside. Decision trees map out the consequences. Multi-criteria decision analysis forces you to get clear on priorities and trade-offs. When teams agree on the framework, they make faster, smarter calls.

And speed matters. In today’s complex environment, hesitation comes at a cost. It costs opportunities, undermines confidence, and sometimes invites competitors to make the decision for you.

For C-suite leaders: The faster your teams can make quality decisions, the more agile your organisation becomes. Champion the adoption of decision support tools that enhance both speed and rigour. When people have confidence in the process, they’ll move decisively.

For risk professionals: Provide decision tools that not only manage risk but empower decision-makers. Balance simplicity with sophistication so the tools are used, and support leaders in understanding how to get the most out of them. Well-designed tools are your fast-track to better outcomes.