LESSON 5: DECISION MAKING AND PROBLEM SOLVING IN LABOARTORY MANAGEMENT

What is decision-making in laboratory management?  

is the process of identifying and choosing alternatives based on values, preferences, and beliefs of the decision-maker. In laboratory management, it involves selecting the best course of action to resolve issues or improve processes.

What is problem-solving in the context of laboratory management?  

is a systematic process used to find solutions to specific issues or challenges within the laboratory. It involves identifying the root cause of a problem, generating potential solutions, and implementing corrective actions.

What are the characteristics of a good decision?  

1. Based on a complete investigation of the problem.  
2. Considers alternative solutions.  
3. Involves an in-depth analysis of available information.  
4. Implements the chosen solution effectively.

How does the human element influence decision-making?  

Human factors such as emotions, prejudices, peer pressure, and personal interests significantly impact decision-making. These elements cannot be entirely eliminated but must be controlled to make objective decisions.

What are the 8 steps in making a sound decision?  

1. Recognition

2. Investigation

3. Definition

4. Identification

5. Evaluation

6. Selection

7. Implementation

8. Follow-up

Recognition

Identifying the problem.  

Investigation

Analyzing the cause and extent of the problem.  

Definition

Clarifying the problem's nature and boundaries.  

Identification

Listing potential alternative solutions.  

Evaluation

Assessing each alternative.  

Selection

Choosing the best alternative.  

Implementation

Putting the decision into action.  

Follow-up

Monitoring the effectiveness of the solution.

What is the role of investigation in the decision-making process?  

involves collecting data, interviewing staff, and gathering information to understand the scope of the problem. It helps uncover any hidden issues that may contribute to the problem.

What is the importance of defining a problem clearly?  

A well-defined problem makes it easier to find a solution. It involves determining the people, equipment, communication, and workflow involved and distinguishing between a one-time issue and a recurring or systemic problem.

Deviation

A one-time, random human error.  

Effectual problem

A surface symptom that hides the deeper issue.  

Causal problem

The root cause of the problem that needs to be addressed.

Why is it important to identify multiple alternative solutions?  

It allows the manager to compare and choose the best option. It prevents premature decision-making and ensures a comprehensive review of available alternatives.

What is involved in the evaluation and selection phase of decision-making?  

1. Evaluating each alternative solution based on its feasibility and alignment with laboratory goals.  
2. Selecting the option that best addresses the problem while considering constraints such as time, budget, and resources.

What is the importance of following up after implementing a solution?  

It ensures that the implemented solution is working as intended. It helps identify any additional adjustments needed to fully resolve the problem or improve processes.

What are qualitative decision-making tools?  

It rely on personal judgment and include techniques like soliciting advice, brainstorming, and forming committees. They are subjective and based on the manager’s experience and input from others.

What is personal judgment in decision-making?  

It is the ability to make decisions based on individual knowledge and experience. It develops over time through maturity, formal training, and career advancement.

What is solicitation of advice in decision-making?  

It involves seeking input from colleagues, forming committees, or delegating tasks to gather diverse perspectives on potential solutions to a problem.

What are the four main techniques for soliciting advice?  

1. Brainstorming

2. Synectics

3. Nominal Grouping

4. Delphi Method

Brainstorming

Technique used in groups whereby everyone freely and spontaneously throw out ideas and solutions for later evaluation without regard for validity.

Synectics

Group whose members are brought together as a problem-solving team.

Nominal Grouping

A highly structured meeting in which individuals write their original ideas in private, with the alternative solutions anonymously presented to the group for discussion and then voted on and tallied in secret.

Delphi Method

Modification of nominal groupings. Input and opinions of experts are solicited on questionnaires before the meeting. Results are then discussed and voted anonymously.

Systematic Option Review

Involves prioritizing each option according to its apparent attractiveness

T-Chart

A tool for listing the advantages and disadvantaged of proposed solution. It clarifies the opportunities and risks associated with each option and makes the selection process more objective.

What are quantitative decision-making tools?  

It rely on numerical data and include techniques such as probability analysis, queuing theory, linear programming, and simulation. These tools provide objective measures to aid in decision-making.

Probability Analysis

Measures risk by assigning a value, expressed as a percentage, to the likelihood of a specific event occurring.

Queuing Theory

Provides recommendations for the number of staff (phlebotomists, clerks, technical personnel, and so on) needed to handle an unpredictable workload.

Linear Programming

A tool for allocating limited resources among competing needs.

Simulation

Designs models to imitate real-life conditions so the different intervention scenarios can be compared.

A Priori Probability

Obtained by deductions based on assumed conditions. Based on assumptions or known conditions.  

Empirical Probability

Determined by recording actual events or a specific period of time and calculating the number of times each event occurs.

Subjective Probability

Based on the knowledge and experience of the individual or group, a prediction is made of the likelihood of an event occurring.