Information processing techniques in planning: an investigation of preferences of executive planners

A study of executive preferences for information processing methods shows that the behavior affecting their options may not be attributed to a single theory except by an implied theoretical explanation. Volatile environments, the adaptability of systems and levels of planning all contribute to the differences in planning scenarios. These differences affect executives' search for information and the appropriate information processing method. Eight information processing tools are evaluated in terms of executive preferences in a situational context.