The decision maker may adopt, modify, or rewrite a hearing officer's proposed findings of fact and proposed conclusions of law. If a decision maker or a majority of them has not heard the evidence, a proposed decision, including findings of fact and conclusions of law, shall be served on each party. Parties adversely affected by the proposed decision shall be afforded the opportunity, within 10 days after receipt of the proposed decision, to file exceptions and present argument to the decision maker or the majority of them. Copies of the final decision and findings of fact and conclusions of law shall be delivered or mailed promptly to all parties or their attorneys. Instead of a decision, a contested case may be disposed of by agreed settlement, consent order, or default.