Principles of Management CLEP Practice Exam 2026 - Free Management Practice Questions and Study Guide

The political model of decision-making is characterized by the understanding that decisions are often made in a context where various stakeholders with differing interests, power, and perspectives are involved. In this model, criteria for decision-making may not be established beforehand but are instead developed through discussion and negotiation among the group involved in the decision process. This reflects the reality that decisions are influenced by the interactions and power dynamics among group members, rather than being strictly based on objective criteria or quantitative analysis.

In contrast, the focus on predefined criteria for decision-making would align more closely with a rational model, where decisions follow clear and established guidelines. Similarly, while emphasizing the preferences and authority of individual managers might suggest a more autocratic or central decision-making approach, it does not accurately capture the collaborative and often contentious nature of the political model. The political model thrives in environments where negotiation and influence are key to reaching a consensus or making a decision, underscoring how collective input shapes the criteria for outcomes.