Problem Solving and Decision Making

NOTE: This is a 2-day training. If you select a date, that is Day 1. The next day is Day 2.

Details

Participants learn to define problems clearly, validate root causes, generate options, and select solutions using evidence-based tools. The program concludes with an application workshop integrating analysis, planning, implementation, and continuous improvement.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Apply a structured problem-solving process using the PDCA framework.
2. Define workplace problems accurately using clear statements, facts, scope, and impact.
3. Identify and validate root causes using 5 Whys, Fishbone, Pareto, 5W1H, and Is / Is Not analysis.
4. Generate creative alternatives through brainstorming, brainwriting, affinity mapping, and SCAMPER.
5. Evaluate options objectively using decision, impact-effort, and risk matrices.
6. Translate selected solutions into SMART, role-based implementation plans with clear milestones.
7. Monitor results, compare performance, make corrective adjustments, and standardize improvements.
8. Analyze and present a complete solution to an actual or simulated workplace problem.

Who This Course Is For

• Supervisors, team leaders, managers, and project leads responsible for resolving workplace issues
  Professionals in operations, quality, HR, customer service, administration, and support functions
  Cross-functional teams involved in process improvement, corrective action, or decision making
  Employees who need a practical and repeatable method for addressing recurring problems

Training Methodologies

• Facilitated discussions, tool demonstrations, guided exercises, and workplace scenarios build a disciplined problem-solving mindset.
• Individual and group analysis, structured decision activities, and a capstone workshop reinforce application through presentation and feedback.

VENUE: Mpower Learning Manila
222 Vivaldi Residences, 628 EDSA cor Aurora Blvd., Cubao, QC

On-site INCLUSIONS:
NOTE: Bring Own Laptop

• 1 AM Snack
• 1 PM Snack
• 1 Lunch (Fastfood)
• Printed Handout
• Printed Certificate
• Unlimited Coffee
• WIFI access

via Zoom INCLUSIONS:

• PDF Handout
• PDF Certificate

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1. Introduction to Structured Problem Solving

• Definition and importance of problem solving
• Problem solving vs. firefighting
• Common types of workplace problems
• Overview of the structured problem-solving process
• Introduction to the PDCA Framework

2. Defining and Understanding the Problem

• Identifying the actual problem versus its symptoms
• Developing a clear problem statement
• Determining the scope and impact of the problem
• Gathering relevant facts, information, and data
• 5W1H Analysis
• Is / Is Not Analysis

3. Root Cause Analysis

• Identifying possible and contributing causes
• Distinguishing symptoms from root causes
• Validating causes using available evidence and data
• 5 Whys Analysis
• Fishbone / Ishikawa Diagram
• Pareto Analysis and the 80/20 Principle

4. Generating Possible Solutions

• Brainstorming potential solutions
• Exploring different perspectives and alternatives
• Challenging assumptions and existing practices
• Brainwriting
• Affinity Diagram
• SCAMPER Technique

5. Evaluating Solutions and Decision Making

• Establishing criteria for evaluating solutions
• Comparing benefits, costs, risks, and feasibility
• Considering stakeholder requirements and constraints
• Evaluating possible trade-offs
• Decision Matrix / Weighted Scoring Matrix
• Impact-Effort Matrix
• Risk Matrix

6. Solution Planning and Implementation

• Translating solutions into specific actions
• Identifying required resources
• Assigning roles and responsibilities
• Establishing realistic deadlines and milestones
• Anticipating possible implementation barriers
• SMART Action Planning
• RACI Matrix
• Who-What-When Action Plan

7. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Continuous Improvement

• Establishing success measures and performance indicators
• Monitoring implementation progress
• Comparing actual results against desired outcomes
• Identifying gaps and unintended consequences
• Making corrective adjustments as needed
• PDCA Review
• Before-and-After KPI Comparison
• Capturing lessons learned and standardizing improvements

8. Problem-Solving Application Workshop

• Analyze an actual or simulated workplace problem
• Define the problem and its scope
• Conduct root cause analysis
• Prioritize key causes
• Generate possible solutions
• Evaluate and select the best solution
• Develop an implementation action plan
• Present and defend the recommended solution