Rationality vs Incrementalism

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Manandhar 1

Elina Manandhar

2/1/2016

Dr. Candy Young

Rationality vs Incrementalism

Rational approach: There are many approaches one person can take while trying to

solve complex problems. Rational approach as defined by Lindblom (1959) is vastly based on

theories, values and objectives which are distinguished and clear from the beginning. He argues

that it is impossible to solve complex problems using rational approach- but not impossible if it

is modified (Lindblom, 1959, p. 80). Rational approach provides relatively few alternatives and

few values as the conclusions are usually fixed or are limited (Lindblom, 1959, p.80). However,

Lindblom (1959) talks about another approach which is barely used by many administrators and

policy maker but used by some who travels path of unknown- which is the successive

comparison limited approach. A Rational approach can be used to solve a simple context: which

is defined by Boone & Snowden (2007) as a situation where the problem and solution is clear

and known. It will be very hard to solve a complex context where change cannot be predicted by

using a rational approach. Many people do not want to take the risk, which is why many people

chose the rational approach.

Successive approach: Successive approach is the approach which is built from the

current situation, and is not entirely based on only certain values or goals (Lindblom, 1959, p.

81). It is very hard to know results when you are starting a procedure, which is why he suggests

that even if rational approach is widely used, successive approach allows a person or a leader to

bring more creativity and be open to suggestions and criticism.

Evidence- Based Management: As we have read many times, there cannot be only one

solution to a problem. Evidence- Based Management for Doctors can be described as the

conscientious, explicit and judicious use of current best evidence about taking care of patient,

which is similar to what organizations should aim for as well (Pfeffer & Sutton, 2006, p.1). But,

the evidence is a lot weaker in management and organizations as there can be many possible

answers and anyone can claim to be an expert in management (Pfeffer & Sutton, 2006, p.2).

There are many problems that can be avoided or resolved if companies use evidence-

based management: putting more thought into a process and not taking decisions based on

instincts or past experiences. There are many psychological traps that undermine business

decisions (Hammond, Keeney & Raiffa, 2013, p. 2). Evidence- based leadership can help a