Problem Solving: Probing Deeper


Overview/Description
Target Audience
Expected Duration
Lesson Objectives
Course Number


Overview/Description
Norman Vincent Peale, who stressed the need for analysing a problem in detail, once said, 'When a problem appears, study it until you are completely knowledgeable. Then, find the spot, break the problem apart and the rest will be easy.' A fact-based, honest analysis happens at two main steps in the problem-solving process: first, when you analyse problems to identify the root causes and then, when you evaluate and analyse potential solutions to determine the one that has the maximum chance of success. Several tools are used for analysis and evaluation at each of these steps. Examples of tools that help to find the root causes of the problem are the cause-and-effect diagram and five-why analysis. Cost-benefit and force-field analysis help in choosing the best solution. This course helps you to recognise the value of honest, fact-based analysis and demonstrates how the application of a few tools greatly assists you when determining the root cause of a problem and the best solution. The course first discusses problem analysis, illustrates steps to follow when analysing problems and outlines the tools used for finding the root causes. It then describes how to use evaluation and analysis when choosing the best solution from the alternatives available, as well as, some of the tools you can use to assist in your endeavours.

Target Audience
Individuals who want to develop or improve their problem-solving and decision-making skills

Expected Duration (hours)
1.0

Lesson Objectives

Problem Solving: Probing Deeper

  • recognise when to use specific fact-based analysis tools
  • apply the steps in a five-why analysis to determine the root cause of a problem
  • apply the steps in a cost-benefit analysis to determine the best solution to a problem
  • Course Number:
    pd_12_a03_bs_enin