Expert Techniques in Problem Solving and Decision Making

Introduction:

Why do some people view problem-solving as a fascinating challenge, while others see it as anxiety-provoking? How does one manager make decisions quickly and effectively while another waits until the last minute? Which of these two scenarios aligns more with your approach to problem-solving and decision-making? The key difference is that the first group uses a tried-and-true methodology to enhance their effectiveness in finding solutions and creating strategic pathways.

These skills are not innate but can be developed. This advanced problem-solving and decision-making course focuses on how to become an active and effective team member in solving problems and making strategic decisions.

This course equips participants with practical steps that guide them in transforming their organization from merely identifying the root causes of problems to developing innovative solutions and making actionable, practical decisions.

Objectives:

After completing this training on decision-making skills, participants should be able to:

• Choose and Apply Effective Methods: Select and apply useful methods for practical decision-making and problem-solving.
• Awareness of Influences: Recognize how values, biases, and personality attributes influence the solutions we choose.
• Systematic Process for Solutions: Follow a systematic process to arrive at constructive and workable options.
• Evaluate and Grow Creativity: Assess individual and organizational creativity, then develop a strategy for growth.
• Explore Innovative Methods: Explore different problem-solving methods that foster innovative solutions.
• Nurture Decision-Making Competencies: Develop the decision-making skills that define effective and trustworthy leaders.

Training Methodology:

• Interactivity in Workshops
• Group Discussions
• Role-Playing Scenarios
• In-the-Moment Feedback
• Simulated Problem-Solving Exercises
• Decision Analysis Models
• Brainstorming Sessions and Reflective Practice Sessions
• Peer Review and Evaluation

Course Outline:

Unit 1: Psychology of Problem Solving & Decision Making:

• Brief on Psychological Thought
• Ethics, Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Psychological Type and Lateral Thinking in Problem-Solving Contexts
• My Psychological Type and My Preferences: What It Means
• Lateral Thinking in Teams Using a Team Approach: ZIGZAG Model
• Individual or Group Decision Making – Case Study/Case Studies

Unit 2: The Development of Decision-Making Skills:

• Making Decisions with Your Left Brain or Right Brain
• Split-Brain Theory for Developing Practical Skills in Solving Problems
• Developing Openness to New Ideas During Decision-Making Process
• Promoting Idea Mobility within Teams/Between Teams and Departments/Sections
• Understanding the Creative Solving Process in Individuals & Teams
• IDEAL Method for Resolving Problems

Unit 3: Effective Application of Decision-Making Skills at the Workplace:

• Encouraging Creative Problem Solving for Continuous Improvement
• Elimination of Barriers to Creative Problem Solving
• Convergent vs. Divergent Thinking
• Divergent Thinking Skill as a Solution to Problem Solving
• Problem-Solving Using SCAMPER Techniques
• Application of SCAMPER Techniques to Improve Decisions Made

Unit 4: Overcoming Mental Blocks to Decision-Making:

• Challenge Self-Imposed Assumptions
• Think Beyond the Box
• Increase New Ideas
• Get People Behind Your Ideas
• Evaluate New Ideas
• Creative Leadership in Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Processes

Unit 5: Effective Leadership and the Dynamic Problem-Solving Team:

• Align with Corporate Mission
• Promote Activity Originating from Within an Individual
• Encourage Unofficial Behavior to Foster Creativity
• Bolster Serendipity
• Appreciate Varied Stimuli
• Use Internal Communication for Problem-Solving Purposes
• Create Personal Action Plans