Implementation

Abstract

A decision process can be considered to be composed of two major phases: The first phase represents the planning process, and the second phase is concerned with implementing the decision the planning process resulted in. Hence, planning and implementation can be looked at as forming a DDM system which again gives rise to an investigation within the theory of hierarchical planning. This system of distributed decisions, however, is not that distinct as it might appear. In fact, as Fig. 8.1 shows, the implementation activities often overlap the planning process. On many occasions, the implementation level is participating in the planning procedure. Furthermore, a plan is often not a clear-cut decision, it can be changed during the implementation, and short-term control mechanisms often promote the implementation.