How Better Decisions Get Made

Keynote

How small changes can dramatically improve our ability to make decisions in uncertainty

Today’s complex and fast-moving environment has made good decision-making more difficult than ever. Leaders are routinely required to exercise judgement in the face of incomplete information, competing expectations and genuine disagreement about the right way forward.

How Better Decisions Get Made recognises that effective decision-making is a core leadership capability, one required by individuals and groups alike. The session examines where decision-making goes wrong and the subtle shifts that can strengthen judgement, allow for constructive disagreement and help leaders establish direction in the face of uncertainty.

Drawing on behavioural science, governance practice and real-world leadership examples, this keynote outlines a practical, evidence-based approach to decision-making that improves outcomes, increases transparency and supports effective delegation.

This session shows how better decisions are made, not by avoiding disagreement, but by using it well.

What it covers

Your audience will gain a clearer understanding of how individual biases and group dynamics influence decisions, how to make better use of collective judgement, and how to navigate disagreement constructively. They’ll leave with practical approaches to prioritising projects, improving transparency and reaching clearer decisions without relying on false consensus.

Audience

Perfect for leadership teams, boards and government councillors who want to develop next-level decision-making and decision-advisory skills.

Timing (when in the program)

This keynote brings the latest in decision-making science to your next event. While it’s hard to think of a bad time to become a better decision-maker, this session works particularly well either before lunch or as a thought-provoking way to close the program.

Simon’s presentation was delivered with professionalism and charm. Our audience loved him!

Sharna Crosbie

Destination Melbourne

work with simon

If you’re considering Simon for an upcoming event the first step is to check his availability (you can do that by filling out the form below or contacting 1300 66 55 85 (within Australia).

Assuming your preferred dates are available we can arrange a call with Simon over your video-conferencing platform of choice to discuss your requirements.

Some of Simon's other topics

The Future of Purpose

In *The Future of Purpose*, futurist Simon Waller explores how technology has continually reshaped the way we live, work and see ourselves. As AI expands our ability to think, create and generate new possibilities, this keynote asks a bigger question: what should we choose to do with that capability? Simon examines why purpose, shared direction and meaningful action will become increasingly important in helping people and organisations shape a more intentional and optimistic future.

The Art of Future Thinking

The perfect opening keynote or endnote for an industry conference, the Art of Future Thinking encourages audiences to look at the content and conversations from your event through fresh eyes. Simon shows the audience how to identify the ‘signals’ or change in the environment around them and use these to understand the drivers of change they need to be thinking about in their business.

Beyond the AI Hype

Beyond the AI Hype is a non-technical exploration of the future of AI, designed to help business leaders understand its strategic implications and anticipate second and third-order impacts. Delivered as a keynote or interactive workshop, this session equips leaders with the knowledge and confidence to guide informed conversations about AI across their organisation.

Can technology make us more human

This keynote explores the long-term relationship between humans and technology. Technological progress is more predictable than we think, and we CAN take steps to enhance our long-term relevance. By using technology wisely, we can become more human. Given the impact of digital disruption, this keynote appeals across all organisational levels and industry sectors.