Compare and contrast the rational model of decision making, Simon’s normative model, and the garbage can model. The rational decision-making model consists of identifying the problem, generating alternative solutions, evaluating and selecting a solution, and implementing and evaluating the solution. Research indicates that decision makers do not follow the series of steps outlined in the rational model.

Simon’s normative model is guided by a decision maker’s bounded rationality. Bounded rationality means that decision makers are bounded or restricted by a variety of constraints when making decisions.

The normative model suggests that decision making is characterized by

(a) limited information processing,

(b) the use of judgmental heuristics, and

(c) satisficing.

The garbage can model is based on the assumption that decision making is sloppy and haphazard.

Decisions result from an interaction between four independent streams of events: problems, solutions, participants, and choice opportunities. P=879