Be Able To Analyze A Complex Problem In The Context Of The Workplace: Faculty Of Business Report, UCD, Ireland

Learning Outcomes

1 Be able to analyze a complex problem in the context of the workplace

2 Be able to apply decision-making techniques when assessing possible
solutions

3 Be able to plan how you will implement the solution

Indicative Content:

1. Complex problems with multiple possible solutions as a challenge and an opportunity for improvement

a) Ways to recognize, investigate, and analyze complex problems such as Root Cause Analysis (RCA), Cause and Effect, Ishikawa, Why-Why, and brainstorming, and a range of other creative thinking techniques

b) Framing and scoping problems with a ‘Problem Definition’

c) Setting objectives in relation to problems

d) Collecting primary and secondary data for decision making

e) Data analysis techniques for quantitative and qualitative data

2. Conditions under which decisions are made (certainty, uncertainty)

a) Creative and rational decision-making

b) Techniques for generating creative solutions and rational solutions in decision-making

c) Establishing criteria for decision-making

d) Setting priorities

e) Evaluating options

f) Rational decision-making models and techniques such as grid analysis, paired comparison analysis, decision trees, ‘pros and cons’

g) Creative decision-making using brainstorming and a range of other creative thinking techniques

i) Decision making in relation to goals that specify the quality or quantity of the desired results

3. Implementation planning (for example – human resources, finance, marketing, operations, health, and safety)

a) Resource allocation (money, people, facilities, equipment etc)

b) Implementation planning tools and techniques such as GANTT charts, PDCA Cycle (plan-do-check-act), PDSA (plan-do-study-act)

c) SMART objectives

d) Communication plans

e) Monitoring and review techniques such as Critical Path Analysis (CPA), Programme Evaluation and Review (PERT)