problem solving and decision making

1. PROBLEM SOLVING AND
DECISION MAKING -
"The one common experience of all humanity is the
challenge of problems."

2. Problem Solving
A process of taking corrective action in order to meet
objectives.
Problem-solving often involves decision-making

3. Understanding Decision-Making
A process of selecting an alternative course of action
that will solve a problem.

4. Problem solving involves making a series of decisions:
• deciding that something is wrong,
• deciding what the problem is, and
• deciding how to solve it.

5. Steps of decision making &
problem solving
• Define the problem
• Gather information
• Develop alternatives
• Weigh alternatives
• Select the best alternative
• Implement the solution
• Monitor progress and follow up

6. FLOW
CHART

7. Decision-Making Skills
 Task skills - Problem recognition and framing,
inference drawing, idea generation, argument
 Relational skills - Leadership, climate building,
conflict management
 Procedural skills - Planning, process enactment

8. Decision-Making Principles
 Evolutionary process
 Circular rather than linear
 Individual-level and group-level influences affect
decision making
 Decisions are made within system of internal and
external constraints
 Groups provide a greater diversity of perspectives
 Group provides the opportunity to test ideas before one
is selected and implemented

9. Creative Group
Problem Solving &
Decision Making
 Creativity – The ability to develop unique
alternatives to solve problems.
“The process of having original ideas that have value.” – Sir Ken Robinson
 The creative process has four stages: preparation,
possible solutions, incubation, and evaluation.
 How people respond to creative ideas affects the
group’s behavior