But [in bureaucracies], too, decision making takes place…
![“But [in bureaucracies], too, decision making takes place in a world full of unceratinties. Any actual system of information processing, planning and control will never be optimal but merely practical, applying rote responses to recurrent problems and employing a variety of contingency tactics to…” quote by Manuel De Landa](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/3cb/manuel-de-landa-56865_bureaucracies_but-in-bureaucracies-too-decision-making_1653497.png)
“But [in bureaucracies], too, decision making takes place in a world full of unceratinties. Any actual system of information processing, planning and control will never be optimal but merely practical, applying rote responses to recurrent problems and employing a variety of contingency tactics to deal with unforeseen events.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Decision making in complex organizations must balance ideal optimality with real‑world uncertainty, using practical rules and contingency plans.
In simple terms: Real‑world decisions favor practical rules over perfect solutions.
Key Takeaway
Accept imperfection and prepare adaptable responses.
Themes
uncertainty
decision making
organizations
practicality
Mood
cautious
realistic
Type
analytical
pragmatic
When to use this quote
- project management
- public policy
- emergency response
- business strategy
Key Concepts
systems theory
contingency planning
bounded rationality
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance ideal goals with practical constraints?
- What contingency tactics work best in your field?
A Different Perspective
Optimal solutions are often unattainable; over‑reliance on models can miss nuance.