Which of the following describes operational decision-making?

• A. Long term decisions made by directors
• B. Short term decisions made by supervisors and all employees
• C. Medium term decisions made by middle managers
• D. Decisions about mission statements

Answer: (B)

Operational decision-making focuses on the day-to-day activities that keep the business running. These are typically short-term, needing quick, practical choices that affect current operations. They’re often made by those closest to the work—the supervisors and the employees who perform the tasks—so actions can be taken promptly to address immediate needs, schedule work, adjust processes, or solve on-the-spot problems.

Long-term decisions made by directors are about strategy and the future direction of the organization, spanning years. Decisions about mission statements are high-level and define purpose and values, not daily operations. Middle managers handle tactical decisions that translate strategy into actions, usually over a medium term rather than day-to-day.

So the description that best matches operational decision-making is the short-term decisions made by supervisors and all employees.