The exploratory study, condensed in two articles, the first one published in RAP 1/93 and the second in this present issue, develops a qualitative method, combining both the analytical and the synthetical procedures, and adopts a comprehensive view of the decision-making process in the Brazilian university, in order to better explain it. Using the working tools of the survey, direct observation and case-studies and with the support of five descriptive models (rational, bureaucratic, political, collegiate and anarchic), the author proposes that decision be explained by a network of connections between the various factors influencing it, expressing different rationalities. That network has different configurations, pursuant to the institution or process being studied. The analysis is a contribution to the understanding of the Brazilian university and is starting a line of theoretical investigation in academic management.Segundo e último artigo condensando pesquisa sobre decisão na Universidade. Desenvolvimento de método qualitativo, combinando procedimento analítico com sintético. Adoção de visão abrangente do processo decisório. Metodologia criada para alcançar objetivo do estudo. Procedimento adotado com os fatores influenciadores da decisão e com os modelos de referência da visão sintética do processo. Conclusões da pesquisa.