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Holistic Decision Making
Dan Palmer discusses the principles of holistic decision-making and its applications in various fields, emphasising a shift from problem-solving to creation and the importance of aligning goals with quality of life.
Dan highlights the importance of making holistic management accessible to everyone, not just farmers. He shares his experience with "Very Edible Gardens," showcasing the effectiveness of holistic principles in business recovery.
The method shifts focus from problem-solving to positive outcome creation. "Quality of life" statements serve as a framework for meaningful goal setting. Identifying the underlying purpose ("why") is crucial for effective decision-making. Self-awareness and alignment with personal values are essential for sustainable choices.
#video with Dan Palmer - Presentation: 1h:20m
In Introduction to Holistic Management: Part One – Clarifying the Whole Dan shows how Holistic Management begins by defining the ‘whole’ under management, identifying decision-makers, and assessing available resources. It emphasises setting a clear holistic context to guide decisions, ensuring they align with long-term goals. The process includes identifying root causes of issues rather than treating symptoms, testing decisions against the holistic context, and continuously monitoring outcomes to adjust as needed. It encourages proactive planning, considering social, environmental, and economic factors to create balanced and sustainable results.
He references the parts of the map which any organisation or individual can make:
In Introduction to Holistic Management: Part Two – Articulating a Context the focus is on articulating a context, which is central to managing holistically. This process involves four key aspects:
Stated Purpose: Craft a concise statement that captures the essence of why the whole exists, serving as a foundational guide for decision-makers.
Quality of Life Statements: Define the desired conditions and experiences for those involved, reflecting motivations and long-term aspirations.
Forms of Production: Identify the actions and processes necessary to achieve the stated purpose and quality of life, ensuring they are sustainable and effective.
Future Resource Base: Consider the environmental, social, and economic resources required to support the whole over time, ensuring decisions contribute to long-term viability.
By thoughtfully addressing each of these components, decision-makers can create a robust framework that aligns actions with overarching goals and values.
For a more detailed description, here is the Holistic Decision Making document by Dan Palmer.