Information Inputs and Influencing Factors in Administrator Decision Making: A Scoping Review

Abstract

This scoping review analyzed the literature on decision making by academic library administrators. The authors reviewed 756 records retrieved from three databases and 627 additional records from citing and cited references; 33 articles met the inclusion criteria. Library administrators make widespread use of internal and external inputs in decision making. Six categories of inputs were identified, along with seven groups of influencing factors. This research contributes to the profession by identifying types of information that reduce uncertainties related to operational decision making and planning. Further research is needed on the relationship between inputs and complexity and levels of decision making.