Evidence and Values Based Decision Making at Waitangi
The inaugural Evidence and Values Based Decision Making (EVBDM) course at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for Te Kahui Hononga / Northland Intersectoral Forum Regional Leadership Group provided a unique platform to explore and enrich decision-making skills. The focus was on 'how' decisions are made to improve outcomes based on real cases relating to economic prosperity, public health delivery and infrastructure resilience.
Led by Aspen NZ Director Neil Jacobstein, this immersive course introduces a new and unique Decision-Making Framework incorporating proven evidence, personal values, bias and risk mitigation, broadening the realm of possibilities for better decision making on critical issues:
‘We can't solve all of our problems immediately, but we can improve our decision making continuously and reduce costly mistakes.’
Three key questions are addressed:
1. What is evidence and how can we use it systematically?
2. How can we ensure that our own values are utilised powerfully?
3. How can we use an evidence and values framework to improve decision outcomes
‘The process … “having a conversation” was a methodology that created high trust within the team and therefore valuable discussion amongst ourselves…I've already called a meeting with my management team to introduce this framework. Anything that helps with making better decisions is good.' Malcolm Robson, Maori Health Pou Takawaenga, 2023 EVBDM Course Alumnus
Applying the Aspen method of moderated conversations, the course fosters candid and frank discussions in a safe environment, which builds trust, confidence, and commitment among a group. The emphasis on using credible, statistically significant evidence helps to remove bias, leading to better-informed decisions and outcomes.
‘In my role, all we do is manage risks. I think this framework will make us better, smarter.’ 2023 EVBDM Course Alumnus
We look forward to continuing this course, fostering a community that values informed decision-making for a better future. In 2024, we will be conducting the course for our newly elected Members of Parliament, highlighting the recognition EVBDM has received for it’s transformative potential. Group bookings are now open for 2024.