Some groups use decision by authority, in which an expert or a designated leader makes decisions on behalf of the group. Relying on an authority is appropriate when a group must make a decision quickly or when an individual member has expertise that’s especially critical for solving the problem at hand. For example, emergency-department physicians determine treatment priorities for incoming patients, while nurses and other support staff follow those decisions and provide little or no input.

However, this method has its drawbacks. For example, team members who disagree with a decision may feel pressured to go along with it. If a team member sees serious flaws in the thinking behind a decision but doesn’t speak up loudly enough, disaster can result. If you are leading a group and making a decision by authority, it is still helpful to listen to any questions or concerns of your group members to ensure that your decision is as informed as possible.