What characterizes programmed decisions?

Programmed decisions are characterized by being automatic responses to routine and recurring situations. This is because these types of decisions are typically based on established guidelines or rules that have been created from past experiences or best practices. When confronted with a situation that has been encountered multiple times, managers can rely on these predetermined rules to make quick and efficient decisions, saving both time and cognitive resources.

The nature of programmed decisions emphasizes efficiency and consistency within an organization, allowing for standard operating procedures to be followed without the need for deep analysis every time. This is particularly useful in operational contexts where specific issues are frequently encountered, such as inventory management or employee scheduling, where similar circumstances can be effectively managed using set protocols.

In contrast, options that focus on extensive analysis, high degrees of creativity, or nonroutine challenges do not align with the essence of programmed decisions, as they typically require more nuanced, flexible approaches that consider unique circumstances and varying factors.