Problem Solving and Decision Making
OVERVIEW:
This class discusses the decision-making process and many of the challenges technical professionals and managers face in making timely decisions. It covers the impacts of the human element on decision-making, decision constraints, stakeholders, challenges in problem definition and other related topics. It also includes various structured problem-solving tools and exercises such as root cause analysis, brainstorming and nominal group technique.
KEY TOPICS:
Thoughts on Decision Making
Thoughts on Decision Making
- The hidden choice
- Why make decisions
- Why people don’t make decisions
- Ways to make a decision
- Decisions solve problems
- Decision making versus problem solving
- Realize a decision must be made
Problem Definition
- Define the problem
- Define desired end state
- Define stakeholders
Problem-Solving Process
- Problem definition
- Decision to act on problem
- Define problem-solving scope
- Finding root cause
- Prioritizing root cause correction
- Defining potential solutions
- Select a solution
