What are controllable inputs in a decision-making context?

Controllable inputs in a decision-making context refer to those variables or factors that decision-makers have the ability to influence or change according to their strategic choices and actions. This means that the decision maker can actively manage these inputs to achieve desired outcomes, making them critical for optimizing results in various scenarios.

In contrast, inputs that can vary unpredictably or are determined by external factors do not fall under the control of the decision maker, thus limiting their ability to manage or influence these elements effectively. Random inputs also imply a lack of predictability and control, which further emphasizes the distinction between what can be managed versus what is beyond control. Therefore, the concept of controllable inputs is fundamentally about the agency and decision-making power that individuals or organizations possess in certain aspects of their operations or strategies.