This lengthy and very thorough book is based on the premise that ""nothing is as simple as it seems"" and that success in making decisions depends upon a systematic approach -- a ""method"". The author deals with the processes of decision-making among individuals and in organizations and he begins by analyzing all the preliminary steps which actually precede the moment of judgment. He discusses the procedures involved in recognizing the problem, assembling the facts and making them available, setting up criteria for choices, and reaching agreement. He also stresses the necessity -- for organizations, of providing a point of view which should govern the making of decisions and he explains the use of electronic computers in decision-making situations. The author provides numerous case histories and examples from his own government and business experience.