Welcome To
Staff Development Training
Center
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Course
Problem Solving
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Course Outline :
Problem Solving
Module 1 : Course Outline
Module 2 : Introduction to problem solving
Module 3: Models for problem solving
Module 4: Problem Solving Cycle
Module 5: Barriers to problem solving
Module 6: strategies for investigating problems
Module 7: Improving Decision Making Skills
Module 8: Applying Critical thinking to everyday
problems
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 1
Course Overview
Course Overview
Problem-Solving Skills Overview
Defines a problem, determines its cause, and
implements the best solution.
Skills include swift problem recognition and
solution execution.
Essential for job applicants due to self-reliance.
Training provides necessary skills and knowledge
for problem-solving proficiency.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 2
introduction to
problem solving
introduction to problem solving
Characteristics of Difficulty
Problems
Complexity: Large number of items,
interrelations, decisions.
Enumerability: Enables understanding of
complex relationships.
Heterogeneity: Connectivity in hierarchies,
communication, and allocation.
Dynamics: Time considerations.
In transparency: Lack of clarity.
Polytely: Multiple goals.
introduction to problem solving
Barriers to problem solving
Common Processes and Factors
Mental set: Tendency to solve problems based on
past experiences.
Functional fixedness: Preference for similar
problem-solving methods.
Unnecessary constraints: Insufficient information.
Unnecessary
Constraints
introduction to problem solving
Problem Solving
Process:
Define problem.
Clarify problem.
Define goals.
Identify root cause.
Develop action plan.
Execute plan.
Evaluate results.
Continuously improve.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 3
Models for problem
solving
Models for problem solving
Deming Cycle Overview
Management methodology for continuous
process improvement.
Based on four stages: plan, do, check, act.
Adapts to market changes, boosts
efficiency, and meets customer needs.
Models for problem solving
Hurson's Productive-Thinking Model
Encourages creativity for effective solutions.
Provides structure beyond free idea flow.
Involves defining questions at the start.
Models for problem solving
Fishbone Diagram Categories
Overview
Manpower: Various categories.
Materials: Various methods.
Methods: Various machines.
Machines: Various tools.
Measurement: Various methods.
Environment: Various factors.
Models for problem solving
TRIZ is a system of creative problem
solving, commonly used in engineering
and process management. It follows four
basic steps:
Defines specific problem.
Finds TRIZ generalized problem matching it.
Finds generalized solution.
Adapts generalized solution to specific problem.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 4
Problem Solving
Cycle
Problem Solving Cycle
Problem Identification Overview
Identifying root cause.
Developing detailed problem statement.
Step 1: Identifying Problem
• Size up situation for full picture.
• Analyze current situation to determine
happenings and non-occurrences.
Problem Solving Cycle
Exploring Strategies:
Understanding Challenge
Assessing Available Info
Classifying Inputs
Constructing Test Cases
Committing to a Strategy
Problem Solving Cycle
SMART Goals for Problem Solving:
Define problem.
Analyze root cause.
Collaborate willingly.
Evaluate alternatives.
Implement action plan.
Ask right questions.
Be flexible.
Brainstorm solutions.
Problem Solving Cycle
Problem solving
solution
Look at alternatives
Select a possible solution
Implement a possible solution
Evaluate the result
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 5
Barriers to Problem Solving
Barriers to Problem Solving
Decision Making Challenges
Lack of clarity.
Time constraints.
Insufficient reliable data.
Insufficient risk-taking.
Overly many options.
Insufficient support.
Limited resources.
Inability to adapt.
Barriers to Problem Solving
Diagnosing is the process
of identifying the cause of
a problem.
Troubleshooting is the
process of finding a
solution to a problem.
Both processes are
important in ensuring that
computer problems are
resolved effectively.
Barriers to Problem Solving
Performance Strategies
Overview
Motivates, measures, and develops
employee performance.
Outlines expectations, creates goals,
offers feedback.
Evaluates results and establishes
developmental opportunities.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 6
Strategies for investigating
problems
Strategies for investigating
problems
Psychological Strategies
Enhancing concentration/attention
skills.
Mental rehearsal/visualization/imagery.
Relaxation techniques.
Goal setting.
Strategies for investigating
problems
Why is it important to know the types of arguments?
Argument Reasons:
Solving problems or making judgments.
Defending or explaining actions or stances.
Communicating personal or group perspectives.
Types of arguments
Causal argument
Rebuttal argument
Proposal argument
Evaluation argument
Narrative argument
Toulmin argument
Rogerian argument
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 7
improving decisions making
skills
improving decisions making
skills
What is decision making?
Decision making is the process of making choices by
identifying a decision, gathering information, and
assessing alternative resolutions
Decision Making Process
Identifying decision.
Gathering information.
Assessing alternatives.
Step-by-step process for deliberate,
thoughtful decisions.
improving decisions making
skills
Types of Decision-Making
Tactics and Strategic Decisions
Programmed and Non-programmed Decisions
Basic and Routine Decisions
Organizational and Personal Decisions
Off-the-Cuff and Planned Decisions
Policy and Operating Decisions
Policy, Administrative, and Executive Decisions.
improving decisions making
skills
Decision Types Overview
Individual decisions: Made by a single person.
Group decisions: Made by more than two people.
Decisions are based on participation in the
process.
improving decisions making
skills
Decision-Making
Process
Define, identify, assess.
Consider, implement, evaluate.
Collaborative thinking essential.
improving decisions making
skills
Improving Decision-
Making Skills
Create a plan for upcoming decisions.
Be assertive and take control of the
decision-making process.
Seek expert advice.
Keep the decision in perspective.
Set deadlines.
Limit choices.
Weigh options.
Exercise regularly.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Module 8
Applying critical thinking to
everyday problems
Applying critical thinking to
everyday problems
Applying critical thinking to
everyday problems
Make the best use of mind
Tackle one thing at a time
Step by step approach
Record your progress
Modify your habits
Reasonable/practicable
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TRAINING CENTER
Thank
You