Strategic Judgement For Complex Problems
Essays and Case Studies Exploring Governance, Incentives, Risk, and Decision-making
Essays
The essays explore the questions behind difficult decisions.
What problem are we actually trying to solve?
What assumptions are we accepting?
What decision is actually being made?
Each essay examines a practical question that leaders face when navigating uncertainty, governance, and change.
Case Studies
Real-world examples from four decades in utilities, local government, economic development, and public-purpose organizations.
Each case examines how strategic judgment shaped decisions and outcomes.
About Ken
For nearly forty years, Ken Nolan has worked at the intersection of governance, public policy, utilities, infrastructure, and organizational leadership.
Over time he became known as someone who saw things others missed, and a trusted partner to leaders facing difficult and complex issues. He is often asked to “be in the room” as tough decisions are being made.
“The Ken Test” began as a tongue-in-cheek way for Ken’s colleagues and staff to describe the rigor he would apply to problems he was asked to solve. Over time it has become something more: a way to examine difficult decisions through a series of practical questions designed to reveal what matters most.
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