Organization and Self-Management Show
Types of Decision MakersProblem solving and decision making belong together. You cannot solve a problem without making a decision. There are two main types of decision makers. Some people use a systematic, rational approach. Others are more intuitive. They go with their emotions or a gut feeling about the right approach. They may have highly creative ways to address the problem, but cannot explain why they have chosen this approach. Six Problem-Solving StepsThe most effective method uses both rational and intuitive or creative approaches. There are six steps in the process:
Identify the problemTo solve a problem, you must first determine what the problem actually is. You may think you know, but you need to check it out. Sometimes, it is easy to focus on symptoms, not causes. You use a rational approach to determine what the problem is. The questions you might ask include:
For example, the apprentice you supervise comes to you saying that the electric warming oven is not working properly. Before you call a repair technician, you may want to ask a few questions. You may want to find out what the apprentice means by “not working properly.” Does he or she know how to operate the equipment? Did he or she check that the equipment was plugged in? Was the fuse or circuit breaker checked? When did it last work? You may be able to avoid an expensive service call. At the very least, you will be able to provide valuable information to the repair technician that aids in the troubleshooting process. Of course, many of the problems that you will face in the kitchen are much more complex than a malfunctioning oven. You may have to deal with problems such as:
However, the basic problem-solving process remains the same even if the problems identified differ. In fact, the more complex the problem is, the more important it is to be methodical in your problem-solving approach. Search for alternativesIt may seem obvious what you have to do to address the problem. Occasionally, this is true, but most times, it is important to identify possible alternatives. This is where the creative side of problem solving really comes in. Brainstorming with a group can be an excellent tool for identifying potential alternatives. Think of as many possibilities as possible. Write down these ideas, even if they seem somewhat zany or offbeat on first impression. Sometimes really silly ideas can contain the germ of a superb solution. Too often, people move too quickly into making a choice without really considering all of the options. Spending more time searching for alternatives and weighing their consequences can really pay off. Weigh the alternativesOnce a number of ideas have been generated, you need to assess each of them to see how effective they might be in addressing the problem. Consider the following factors:
Make a choiceSome individuals and groups avoid making decisions. Not making a decision is in itself a decision. By postponing a decision, you may eliminate a number of options and alternatives. You lose control over the situation. In some cases, a problem can escalate if it is not dealt with promptly. For example, if you do not handle customer complaints promptly, the customer is likely to become even more annoyed. You will have to work much harder to get a satisfactory solution. Implement the decisionOnce you have made a decision, it must be implemented. With major decisions, this may involve detailed planning to ensure that all parts of the operation are informed of their part in the change. The kitchen may need a redesign and new equipment. Employees may need additional training. You may have to plan for a short-term closure while the necessary changes are being made. You will have to inform your customers of the closure. Evaluate the outcomeWhenever you have implemented a decision, you need to evaluate the results. The outcomes may give valuable advice about the decision-making process, the appropriateness of the choice, and the implementation process itself. This information will be useful in improving the company’s response the next time a similar decision has to be made. Creative ThinkingYour creative side is most useful in identifying new or unusual alternatives. Too often, you can get stuck in a pattern of thinking that has been successful in the past. You think of ways that you have handled similar problems in the past. Sometimes this is successful, but when you are faced with a new problem or when your solutions have failed, you may find it difficult to generate new ideas. If you have a problem that seems to have no solution, try these ideas to “unfreeze” your mind:
What is the process of taking corrective action to meet objectives?Problem solving is the process of taking corrective action in order to meet objectives.
What steps are involved in the decision making process sports management?Steps in decision making include defining or framing the problem, identifying criteria for the decision, developing and evaluating the alternatives, select- ing an alternative, implementing the alternative, and evaluating the effectiveness of the decision.
What is the process of generating alternative and then selecting the best course of action to solve a specific problem?Selecting one from the various alternatives is called decision making.
Which type of decision making works best with Nonprogrammed decisions made in uncertain or risky conditions?There are three decision-making conditions. As a general rule, one should use the bounded rationality model with group decision making when a nonprogrammed decision with high risk or uncertainty exists.
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