This workshop gives you the skills to identify problem causes, explore alternative solutions, evaluate results and arrive at solutions that have greater acceptance in your organization.

In addition, this course will provide a common framework and vocabulary which people across the organization can use to organize and focus their thoughts and communications about problem solving.

The Problem Solving Model
The basic problem solving model provides a framework for understanding problem solving principles and applying the appropriate tools.  It consists of two phases, each with a divergent- and convergent thinking component:

Phase I – Clarify the Problem
Explore the problem, in which participants use various tools to understand the complexity of the problem and identify a variety of potential causes. The thinking processes in this step are primarily divergent.

Focus the problem, in which participants create a clear definition of the problem. The thinking processes in this step are primarily convergent.

Phase II – Decide on the Solution
Explore the solution, in which participants again use tools to stimulate divergent thinking, this time focusing on alternative solutions and organizational impacts.

Focus the solution, in which participants use convergent thinking to decide on a practical solution to the problem.
 

Program Benefits

The INSIGHT: Problem Solving Workshop is a one-day, highly interactive, fast paced learning experience that applies 8 tools to the various steps of the problem solving process.

The goal of this workshop is to integrate several habits of thought into your professional perspectives. These internalized ways of thinking, in conjunction with the tools, are key to achieving successful problem solving on a daily basis.

At the conclusion of this workshop, you will be able to:

• Describe the components of the simple problem solving model
• Explain how the problem solving process involves both divergent and convergent thinking
• Describe how to apply the 8 problem solving tools to various steps in the problem solving process
• Describe how these tools and the problem solving model can be applied to problems encountered in the workplace
• Describe the 6 habits of thought of effective problem solvers.

Learning experiences created consistently follow a set of proven principles to achieve high interest and significant impact. These include the following:

• The value of a common framework
• The importance of active participation
• Job oriented work tools
• Real world applicability

• Use the same vocabulary and framework to approach and discuss problem solving in the workplace
• Apply both the tools and the model to their unique and diverse problem situations
• Approach problem solving efficiently and systematically, with an understanding of the root causes of a problem and the long-term implications of a proposed solution
• Apply the 6 habits of thought of effective problem solvers daily in the workplace.

Certificate of Participation will be awarded.

The course consists of four modules, two for each phase of the problem solving process. Specific tools are addressed within each of these modules to demonstrate the key points of the module and to provide an opportunity to learn and practice the tools.

Introduction and Overview

1. Problem Solving Model and The 8 Tools
2. The 6 Habits of Thought for Effective Problem Solvers:
1. Treat the cause, not the symptom
2. Recognise ripple effects
3. Cast a wide net
4. Look where it’s not expected
5. Appreciate complexity
6. Implement simplicity

Explore the Problem
Divergent thinking of the problem solving process and opportunity to practice the following tools: 

• Brainstorming Possible Causes
• Contributing Factor Analysis
• Success/Barrier Analysis.

Explore the Solution
Apply divergent thinking to identify potential solutions and explore organizational and long-term impacts. Practice using the following tools:

• Brainstorming Possible Solutions
• Ripple Effect Analysis
• Implementation Mapping.

Conclusion
Discussion of how these tools will be used in everyday on-the-job situations.