Satisficing
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
A portmanteau of Satisfaction and Sufficing. It refers to the decision-making approach where one does not pursue the perfect 'optimal solution' (Maximizing), but instead sets an acceptable threshold and stops searching once a solution meeting this threshold is found, i.e., a 'satisfactory solution'.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Efficiency balance: In the era of information overload, pursuing the 'optimal' often leads to analysis paralysis. Satisficing is a survival strategy for dealing with infinite information—'good enough' is 'best'.
Anchor fast decisions
Simon proposed that under bounded rationality, decision-makers do not seek the optimal but look for a 'good enough' solution and stop searching, thereby saving cognitive and time costs. This is a realistic decision-making model.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/3Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satisficingverified
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