At the end of this course, the participants should be able to:
- Define and categorize work-related problems correctly.
- Apply proper tools and techniques to analyze problems and discover root causes.
- Differentiate between problem symptoms and causes.
- Apply the scientific-rational approach to solve work problems and make appropriate related decisions.
- Apply creative thinking to suggest new alternative solutions to problems.
- Apply scientific tools to evaluate and choose the best decision from several available alternatives.
Introduction to Problem Solving
- Problem Definition
- Types of problems in the workplace
- Problems Solving and its relationship to Decision Making
- The systematic approach of identifying workplace problems
Steps in Problem Solving (Rational Approach)
- Problem identification
- Collecting and Analyzing information
- Development of alternative solutions
- Evaluation of alternative solutions
- Choosing of an optimal solution
- Setting an action plan
- Implementation of optimal solution
- Follow up and evaluation of optimal solution
Problem Analysis Tools
- Root Cause Analysis Method
- The 5 Whys method
- Six-question method
- Ishikawa (Fishbone)diagram
- Interrelation Diagram
- Pareto principle
Creativity in PSDM
- Define creativity in problem solving
- Tools for creativity in problem solving: (brainstorming, reverse thinking, mind map)
- Obstacles to creativity in problem solving
- Common errors in solving problems
Decision Making
- Introduction to Decision Making
- The types of decisions that are usually taken in any organization
- Decision Making vs. Decision Taking
- Factors affecting decision-making
- Levels of participation in decision-making
- Advantages of a team approach to decision-making
- The scientific-rational approach to decision-making
- Steps to make a rational decision
Decision Evaluation Tools:
- Force-field Analysis
- Decision Matrix
- Decision Tree
- Increase the effectiveness of the decision
-