Solving problems and making decisions

Duration of Course - 2 Days

Unit Aims

To develop knowledge and understanding of solving problems and making decisons as required by a practising or potential manager.

Learning Outcomes

• Know how to describe a problem, its nature, scope and impact
• Know how to gather and interpret information to solve a problem
• Know how to solve a problem
• Know how to plan the implementation and communication of decisions

Course Outline

• Simple ways to recognise, investigate and analyse problems
• Objective setting in relation to problem
• Brainstorming and creative thinking techniques
• Difference between data and information
• How to calculate and use simple averages and basic summary statistics
• How to prepare and use grouped data and tables
• Interpretation of charts and diagrams
• Methods of indexing, referencing and structuring qualitative information
• How to evaluate options
• The importance of adequate and relevant information for effective decision-making
• Identification of what information is relevant to specific decisions
• Simple decision making techniques
• Effective presentation of a case – ie, providing facts and evidence, not just opinion
• Monitoring and review techniques to evaluate outcomes of problem solving activities