Differences in Perception of Strategic Decision-Making Processes: The Case of Physicians and Administrators

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Abstract
Understanding the differences in perceptions among organization leaders of the strategic decision-making process and who participates in it can help leaders manage potential conflict. Although differences in perception occur because of differences in roles and group membership, these differences in perception may be exacerbated by the content of the decision itself and by the generic strategy of the organization. In a study of hospital strategic decision making, findings show that the decision makers' roles, the content of the strategic decision, and, in some cases, the generic strategy of the organization affect differences in perception of the extent to which physicians participate in strategic decision making. Findings also show that decision makers may agree about who participates, but not about how physicians participate. Implications for managers are discussed.