An Empirical Assessment of Decision-Making Style (DMS) of Professional Institutions in Public sector: A Comparative Study on Healthcare and Agricultural Administrators of India

Abstract

Purpose – Understanding one’s decision-making style is crucial for administrators to build their effective administration, problem-solving in various situations, and to know the gears of their decision-making engine to navigate the complex road of organizational challenges and opportunities. Design/Methodology/Approach – The authors received 189 valid questionnaires from healthcare and agricultural administrators, working in their respective healthcare and agricultural institutions in Jammu & Kashmir, India, which were then put to statistical analysis by employing quantitative descriptive survey approach, using SPSS 26.0. Findings – Results imply versatility among healthcare and agricultural administrators in their decision-making styles in different contexts. Also, significant variations on such styles between the two groups of administrators were found to exist. Practical Implications – The outcomes of the study will not only ensure a match between an administrator’s cognitive functioning and the characteristics of their work but also raise their awareness of their decision-making style (DMS). This self-awareness will enable them to evaluate the practicality of their DMS to take precautionary measures when their style may not be the most suitable for a given situation. Originality /Value – Decision-making is one of the most critical duties of an effective administrator, however, little is known about their DMSs particularly in professional institutions, which may aid in their decision-making ability.