Problems can occur at any time, and solutions often need to be found quickly. This topic provides a selection of tools to help you identify the source of a problem, determine all the possible solutions and select the best option.
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Although problem-solving is something everyone does on a daily basis, many people lack confidence in their ability. Here we look at the basic problem-solving process to help keep you on the right track.
Tags: problem-solving | problem-solving | decision-making techniques
Following these top tips will help you approach problems effectively and identify appropriate solutions to them.
Tags: decision-making | decision-making techniques | decision making | problem-solving | problem-solving
This exercise encourages a structured approach to team problem-solving which encourages the skills necessary for empowerment. Allow around 90 minutes for completion.
Tags: teams | problem-solving | decision making | creativity | edward de bono
In his book 'Adapt', economist and author Tim Harford looks at how complex problems are solved. Rather than sticking to a grand plan, or relying on so-called experts who seem to have all the answers, Harford advocates more trial-and-error approaches when it comes to solving problems. These interview highlights with Tim (running time 13 minutes)offer practical advice for leaders on how they can become more experimental.
Tags: problem-solving
Drill Down is a simple, yet highly effective, technique which can be used for breaking problems down into small, manageable chunks.
Tags: problem-solving | decision making | decision making techniques | problem-solving methods
Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is a commonly accepted strategic and change management tool pioneered by David Cooperrider and Suresh Srivastva of Cape Western Reserve University. In this article we look at how the tool can also be used to solve problems.
Tags: appreciative inquiry | appreciative inquiry | problem-solving | problem-solving
The Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator is a world renowned model. In this article we look at how personality preferences affect the problem-solving process.
Tags: decision making | decision-making techniques | problem-solving
There are a number of things that can unintentionally hinder effective problem-solving. These top tips will help you remain vigilant to potential pitfalls and improve your chances of successful resolution.
Tags: problem-solving | decision-making techniques | decision making
Here we look at how Stuart Rose used a basic problem-solving technique to achieve a dramatic turn around in fortunes at Marks and Spencer.
Tags: strategic planning | decision-making techniques
Creative problem-solving involves two kinds of thinking – creative thinking and critical thinking. In this article we look at how combining the two thought processes can provide a balanced approach to problem-solving.
Tags: creative problem-solving | problem-solving | problem-solving
The processes of problem-solving and decision-making can be complicated and drawn out. In this article we look at how the scientific method, along with deductive and inductive reasoning can help simplify these processes.
Tags: problem-solving | problem-solving methods
Appreciative Inquiry (AI) helps us look at what is good and valuable about a particular situation, and to discover new possibilities and improvements. This exercise will help you to apply the theory behind Appreciative Inquiry to problem-solving. Allow 1 hour and 25 minutes for completion.
Tags: decision making | decision-making techniques | problem-solving
This case study uses a variety of creative problem solving techniques to help a restaurant increase its profits.You can use this case study as an individual exercise, or adapt it for use with your team. Allow about one hour for completion if being run as a team exercise.
Tags: planning models | decision making | decision-making techniques | problem-solving
The ‘What if? technique is a quick and easy creative thinking technique that can help generate potential solutions to almost any problem.
Tags: decision making | decision-making | decision-making techniques | problem-solving | problem-solving methods
Force-field analysis is a simple four-step process which can help identify the forces that can aid and resist your efforts to make a decision or plan.
Tags: decision making | decision-making | decision-making techniques | problem-solving | problem-solving
Grid analysis is a useful decision-making technique and is of particular use when you are trying to take a lot of factors into account and all the options seem equally attractive.
Tags: decision making | decision-making | decision-making techniques | problem-solving | problem-solving methods
This light-hearted quiz uses the principles of the Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator to give you an idea of your preferred problem-solving style, and increase your understanding of the other problem-solving personalities out there.
Tags: problem-solving methods | problem-solving