PROBLEM SOLVING AND DECISION MAKING
(Primarily using the Kepner-Tregoe Approach)

Description. The Kepner-Tregoe Approach is an acclaimed process for problem solving and decision making, used and taught in major organizations worldwide.

It is conscious, step-by-step approach for successfully solving problems, making good decisions, and analyzing potential risks and opportunities.

Objective. This training hopes to introduce the use of the Kepner-Tregoe Approach as a tool in Problem Solving and Decision Making. It will help participants maximize their critical thinking skills, systematically organize and prioritize information, set objectives, evaluate alternatives, and analyze impact. Moreover, it will provide participants with diverse content knowledge
and skills to successfully resolve business issues.

Methodology. The seminar-workshop will make use of substantial input
sessions, presentations, discussions and practical exercises.


Outline
I. THE KEPNER-TREGOE APPROACH TO PROBLEM SOLVING AND DECISION
    MAKING

II. SITUATIONAL APPRAISAL
  * Identifying Concerns
  * Setting Priorities
  * Determining the Type of Analysis Needed (Problem Analysis,
     Decision Analysis or Potential Problem Analysis)

III. PROBLEM ANALYSIS (PA)
  * Identification of the Problem and Formulating the Deviation Statement
  * Description of the Problem in Several Dimensions (Identify, Location,
     Timing and Magnitude)
  * Extraction of Key Information from the Four Dimensions to Generate
     Possible Causes
  * Testing for the Most Probable Cause
  * Verification of the True Cause

IV. DECISION ANALYSIS (DA)
  * Clarification of Purpose
        - Formulation of the Decision Statement
        - Developing MUST Objectives
        - Developing WANT Objectives
        - Assigning Weights to WANT Objectives
  * Evaluation of Alternatives or Options
        - Generation of Alternatives or Options
        - Screening Alternatives against MUST Objectives
        - Comparison of Alternatives against MUST Objectives
        - Determination of Tentative Choice
  * Assessment of Risks
        - Identifying Adverse Consequences
        - What could Go Wrong
  * Making the Final or Best Choice

V. POTENTIAL PROBLEM ANALYSIS (PPA)
  * Identification of Potential Problems
  * Identification of Likely Causes
  * Taking Prevention Action
  * Planning Contingent Action and Setting Triggers or Alarms

VI. SOME OTHER TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES FOR PROBLEM SOLVING AND DECISION MAKING
  * Tools for Ideas and Collecting Information (e.g. Brainstorming, Surveys,
    Checklists, etc.)
  * Tools for Reaching Concensus (e.g. Nominal Group Technique, Focus Group
     Discussion, etc.)
  * Tools for Analyzing and Displaying Data (e.g. Cost-Benefit Analysis,
     Information Systems, etc.)

Duration: 16 hours