Problem Solving & Decision Making

Every day you have to make decisions on an almost continual basis. You will probably also be required to solve a number of different problems. These can range from simple and minor to serious and complex.

Regardless of the issue, there are a number of requirements that are common.

These include the need to:

• Accurately identify the issue or problem
• Select and apply tools to generate possible solutions
• Make a decision and/or take action

The ability to effectively identify issues and resolve them is a prerequisite for personal and organisational success,

This one day workshop builds upon an Australian developed self assessment instrument exploring seven categories that contribute to effective problem solving and decision making.

Critical thinking looks at whether you think rigorously and broadly about issues, challenges or problems to find potential solutions that work - “how confident are you in your ability to solve problems by thinking and making judgments?”

Data gathering & processing looks at whether you systematically gather information and use it to effectively solve problems - “how well do you assemble all the relevant data, organising and categorizing it for further analysis?”

Tool selection looks at how effectively you determine what processes to use when you’re faced with a problem or decision - “how well do you understand, select and apply problem solving tools and techniques?”

Lateral conceptualisation looks at whether you generate ideas, hypotheses or even potential solutions that are not immediately obvious to others - “to what extent do you actively put aside conventional thinking and ideas to create new insights or opportunities?”
Weighing alternatives looks at your assessment of data, ideas, options and possibilities to help ensure the best decisions are made - “how effectively do you evaluate competing alternatives on a reasonably comparative basis?”

Risk assessment looks at whether you systematically consider the implications of potential actions or decisions - “how effectively do you engage in formally assessing the potential consequences of suggested solutions?”

Perception and judgment looks at whether you synthesise what you see, hear or sense to determine a viable course of action - “how well do you assimilate and interpret information to help you make decisions?”

This workshop includes a personalised profile and a comprehensive workbook to reinforce what you learn during the day. As a public workshop morning and afternoon tea and lunch is also provided.