Problem Solving & Decision Making – Online

DESCRIPTION OF TRAINING CONTENT

problem-solving‘Problem Solving & Decision Making’ course is a masterclass course which presents the structure, process and the required tools with which someone can solve problems and take the appropriate decisions. The course gives emphasis to the fundamental element for effective problem and decision making: critical thinking. Critical thinking is the application of scientific methods and logical reasoning to problems and decisions and it is of fundamental importance in enabling people to avoid common mistakes, challenge our beliefs, assumptions and/or perceptions, evaluating alternative solutions and anticipating possible risks.  This course will equip the participants with in depth knowledge in order to use analysis, synthesis and positive inquiry to address individual and organizational problems. Upon completion of this course, the participants will be able to identify a problem, conduct a root cause analysis of the problem and develop a set of criteria to evaluate different solutions for the same problem. Using case studies and situations, the participants will have the opportunity to explore successful models and proven methods on problem solving & decision making, that can prove to be valuable not only to their work and their organization but to their everyday life as well. This is a masterclass course taught by high-calibre trainers with vast experience in organizational processes.

 

Main Aims

  • Understand the process for problem identification
  • Create a problem statement
  • Conduct a root cause analysis of the problem
  • Develop criteria to evaluate solution to the problem
  • Generate a list of solutions
  • Select the best solution
  • Validate their solution
  • Develop a plan to implement the solution
  • Develop a plan to monitor and verify the solution
  • Develop a communication plan
  • Make tough decisions aligned with operational priorities.
  • Identify and plan for the resolution high-priority issues.
  • Understand and proactively manage risks and opportunities.
  • Ask the right questions to find hidden insight.

Why PSDM?

This highly interactive course can make a difference to positive outcomes in your life and personal success. Withproblem-solving_6 a balance between theoretical and participative learning, this course will increase ability to identify and solve problems, and to make good decisions with positive outcomes, which is fundamental to a productive and fulfilled life. We are constantly faced with problems of varying magnitude, and must make decisions based on information and rational thought processes.

Problem Solving and Decision Making presents a structure, process and tools to help you solve problems and make decisions, and which will assist in various aspects of your life.

Participants will practice problem solving processes by working on actual problems. The focus is on group decision making, but participants will be able to apply the same processes and tools to individual problems and decisions. This highly interactive course can make a difference to positive outcomes in your life and personal success.

Who to attend PSDM?

The PSDM course is ideal for:

  • School principals & directors (primary & secondary)
  • Teachers (primary & secondary)
  • Academic staff (tertiary)
  • Directors/managers (companies/NGOs)
  • Community leaders
  • Business Development Managers
  • Consultants
  • Trainers

 

Course Content

Module I

– Introductions – Icebreaker exercise

– Problem solving and decision making defined –

– The Cognitive Process –

– Literal vs Lateral – Exercise

– Creative thinking

– Teen Brain Thinking

– Approaches to Problem solving – problem solving ‘types’

Module II

 PROBLEM SOLVING VS DECISION MAKING (Exercise)

– Decision making models

– Deciding how to decide

– Decision making under pressure (Exercise)

– Evidence Based Decision Making (Case Study)

– Thinking Styles

– Thinking as groups or individuals (Exercise 6 thinking hats)

Module III

– Identify Problems

– Creativity and innovation (Exercise)

– Structured Problem Solving

– Tools and techniques for finding solutions

– Working with risk (Exercise)

– Collaborative Team Problem Solving (Exercise)

Module IV

– Communication and influencing

– The power of Negotiation (Exercise)

– Bringing the problem (Case Studies)

– Make the Decision (Case Studies)

– Making it work (Case Studies)

– Presenting the Argument (Team Presentations)

– Follow up and evaluation process

Module V

– Making change happen

– Using Strategy

– Planning concepts and tools (exercise)

– Personal Action Planning (exercise)

– The importance of Validation


METHODOLOGY OF THE COURSE – ADDED VALUE

The methodology of the training is based on a combination of three important elements:

  • Provision of knowledge required (theory)
  • Use of training tools, such as case studies, videos, games, animations & exercises (practice – hands on experience)
  • Feedback/reflection (review)

 

BENEFITS TO PARTICIPANTS – SKILLS & COMPETENCES

The course is ideal for a wide range of professionals, wishing to gain in depth knowledge in the area of problem solving and decision making and more specifically in topics such as, recognizing blocks to decision making, the Psychology of problem solving and decision making, Groups vs. individual, the pros and cons and models for successful problem solving and decision making, among others.

By the end of the course, delegates will have acquired capabilities to:

  • Make shaper decisions through critical thinking and creative problem solving
  • Adapt to different thinking styles in group and team environments
  • Remove barriers to hinder creativity
  • Analyze systematically a specific problem
  • Present ideas clearly and concisely for maximum shareholder buy-in
  • Turn creativity into practical solutions

CERTIFICATIONS AWARDED

  • Certificate of attendance & certificate of competence