Problem Solving

DECISION MAKING & PROBLEM SOLVING

Definitions and Differences

  • Problem Solving: Analytical process that identifies possible solutions to a situation.

  • Decision Making: Process of choosing a solution.

  • Relationship: Making decisions is a part of problem solving.

Importance in Workforce

  • Ranked as the second most important soft skill for new graduates entering the workforce.

Specific Skills Related to Decision Making and Problem Solving

  • Top 3 most important skills indicated within an orange box (not detailed in transcript).

Steps to Solve Problems & Make Good Decisions

Step 1: State the Issue

  • Ask yourself:

    • What is the situation?

    • What decision(s) need to be made?

    • Consider all the information given or known.

    • Identify contributing factors to the issue.

    • Determine when and where the issue is occurring.

    • Recognize who is involved and who might be affected.

    • Understand the interests of everyone involved.

  • Note: If individuals feel voiceless, discontent can occur. This point is vital and often overlooked.

  • Documentation of the entire process may be valuable for later reference.

Step 2: List the Options

  • Identify possible choices:

    • Include short-term and long-term approaches.

    • Include both 'good' (positive) and 'bad' (negative) choices.

    • Analyze how similar issues were resolved in the past.

    • Remember: NOT taking action is also a viable option.

    • Seek feedback/advice from mentors and other relevant individuals.

Step 3: Evaluate the Options

  • Analyze potential impacts for each option by:

    • Listing all pros and cons.

    • Assessing resource needs for implementation.

    • Checking if this option aligns with personal morals and values.

  • Consider using decision-making tools such as:

    • Ben Franklin Ledger

    • Modified Ben Franklin Ledger

    • Measured Criteria Table

    • Weighted Criteria Table

Step 4: Select & Implement the Solution

  • Importance of careful thought and preparation regarding choices (both positive and negative).

  • Use gathered information to select the best solution and implement it.

  • Note: Effective decision-making often relies on good teamwork which requires a positive attitude.

Step 5: Reflect on the Solution

  • After implementing the solution, reflect on:

    • The outcome of the decision.

    • Whether you consider the outcome to be positive or negative.

    • The distinction that a good decision can lead to a bad outcome; the decision is controllable while the outcome may not be.

    • Unexpected consequences that arose.

    • The impact on personal and others' well-being.

    • Key personal learning from the experience.

    • If you would choose the same solution again or what would be changed.

Decision-Making Scenarios

Scenario 1: Rosa's Job Advancement

  • Rosa feels good about her performance and contemplates moving into a supervisory position.

  • Considerations:

    • Has proven her capability and is seeking a new challenge.

    • Needs to weigh the pros/cons of advancing without existing relationships within the team.

  • Question posed: Should Rosa proceed with her ambition to become a supervisor?

Scenario 2: Lima's Career Decision

  • After one year in her job, Lima is offered a choice between two department positions.

  • Department A:

    • Notable for rapid promotions but has a highly authoritarian supervisor (Mr. Kent) with high turnover.

  • Department B:

    • Young, productive manager (Ms. Lee) but no promotions in two years.

  • Question posed: What should Lima choose and why?

Scenario 3: Sheila's First Day Experience

  • Sheila felt unprepared for the fast-paced job after orientation.

  • Interaction with co-worker Tammy points to workplace corruption and struggles.

  • Question posed: Why is Tammy befriending Sheila and what are the implications of their relationship?

Scenario 4: Doug's Managerial Opportunity

  • Doug is appointed to substitute for the restaurant manager but doubts his capability to manage conflicts and customer interactions.

  • Question posed: What should Doug do?

Scenario 5: Kyle's Absenteeism

  • Kyle calls in sick after a camping trip, returns healthy, but neglects to thank co-workers who covered for him.

  • Observations of tension arise following his return.

  • Question posed: What mistake did Kyle make regarding workplace etiquette?

Weekly Assignment Activity

  • Survival Scenario: Participants survived a plane crash in Northern Canada, now choosing 5 of the salvaged items to survive. The conditions are severe with temperatures reaching 40 below zero. Items salvaged include:

    • A ball of steel wool

    • A small ax

    • A loaded .45-caliber pistol

    • Can of Crisco shortening

    • Newspapers (one per person)

    • Cigarette lighter (without fluid)

    • Extra shirt and pants for each survivor

    • 20 x 20 ft. piece of heavy-duty canvas

    • A sectional air map made of plastic

    • One quart of 100-proof whiskey

    • A compass

    • Family-size chocolate bars (one per person)

  • The activity is framed as a discussion requiring group participants to engage with the scenario.