Problem Solving and Decision Making

SAQA ID 242817, Level 4, 8 credits

This skills programme forms part of the National Certificate in Generic Management level 4.

Introduction

Problem solving involves using logic, imagination and creative thinking in order to come up
with an intelligent solution. This course is designed to be a catalyst to unleash your innovation and creativity in order
to solve workplace problems. You will gain a simple step-by-step process for effective decision-making and problem-solving.

Is it right for me?

This skills programme is ideal for managers, project leaders or any individual looking to find innovative and creative ideas
for problem solving and decision making.

Objectives

  • Define a problem
  • Investigate the problem
  • Generate problem solutions
  • Implement problem solution
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the solution

Outline

Define the problem

  • Defining the problem
  • Consulting with stakeholders
  • Formulating the problem definition
  • Selecting the ideal problem solving technique
  • Apply knowledge of statistics and probability to critically interrogate and effectively communicate findings on life
    related problems

Investigate the problem

  • Investigate the problem to determine the details
  • Obtaining further information and critically examining all information for its relevance to the problem

Generate possible solutions

  • Generating possible solutions by using a range of problem-solving techniques
  • Identifying and weighting criteria to enable the ranking of proposed solutions
  • Evaluating possible solutions against the established criteria in order to determine suitability

Implement a solution

  • Selecting the optimum solution in accordance with given criteria
  • Consulting with stakeholders prior to implementation to obtain commitment
  • Implementing the selected solution according to organisational constraints

Evaluate the effectiveness of the solution

  • Identifying criteria for the measurement of the effectiveness of the solution
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of the solution against the criteria
  • Identifying and applying corrective action

Apply statistics and probability to solve problems

  • Critique the selection of samples
  • Identify features of distributions: symmetry and asymmetry, clusters and gaps, and possible outliers in data and consider
    their effects on the interpretation of the data. Critique the use of data from samples to estimate population statistics.
  • Apply an understanding of random phenomena to critique and interpret real life and work related situations.
  • Critique arguments based on probability in terms of an understanding of random behaviour and the law of large numbers
    (e.g. lottery `hot` numbers).
  • Demonstrate understanding of and determine probabilities for independent, disjoint and complementary events.
  • Judge or critique probability values.