Appraisal & Criticism of Simon’s idea of decision making

Appraisal:

Simon focuses attention on the dynamics of decision-making processes & its role in organizations. His study provides a deep insight into administrative behavior & the interaction between decision making processes & administrative behavior found in organization. He viewed organizational decisions, into three phases. Rationality in decision making is a combination of facts & value is a unique contribution of Simon. His administrative man & administrative behavior focus upon administrative system.

Criticism:

Simon’s idea of decision making mainly concerns with business administration rather than public administration. His decision making theory is also criticized on the ground that though decision making process is an important variable in the organization, it is not the only factor. Decision making process involves many other factors, especially emotional, which Simon ignores. Simon’s decision making theory is too general.

Simon is also criticized on his idea of administrative man and administrative behavior. These dimensions differ from person to person & situation to situation. From this viewpoint, Administration cannot totally be regarded as value free science. Similarly, administrative systems do not bring similar role & similar consequences.

Rationality in decision making is also subject to criticism. Rationality, to Simon, meant a decision of ‘Status quo’, it is not dynamic.