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Public relations can enhance strategic decision-making by introducing relevant information that addresses decision-making consequences on stakeholders to the process. This study revealed patterns associated with more effective strategic decision-making. Organizations that view decision- making as more continuous and connected to other important goals find their efforts to be more effective. Transparency is an important quality because it leads to higher levels of trust among participants. Greater participation by stakeholders also enhances the likelihood of more effective decision- making. Robust alternatives resulting from an inquiry-based approach rather than an advocacy-based approach can contribute to more effective decisions. Relationships between organizations and stakeholders that possess higher degrees of trust, familiarity, commitment, loyalty, cooperation, transparency persistence, and dispersed power contribute to more effective decision-making. Finally, organizations that seek to minimize affective conflict and maximize cognitive conflict among all decision-making participants during the process can improve the likelihood of better decision-making.

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Pat has 25 years experience in strategic communication; government, congressional and public affairs; organizational development; innovative leadership with senior government officials and company executives, including crisis communication, media relations, marketing communications, brand management, government relations and strategic planning.

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