CHAPTER SEVEN: Problem Solving and Decision Making in Groups

CHAPTER SEVEN:Problem Solving and Decision Making in Groups

Problem Solving and Decision Making • Problem: a discrepancy between the current state – what actually is happening – and a desired goal – what should be happening • Undesirable situation • Desired situation • Obstacles to change • Problem solving: everything a group uses to move from its current state to the desired goal

Decision Making Decision-making:the act of choosing among available alternatives Area of freedom:the amount of authority and limitations the group has

PROBLEM CHARACTERISTICS Task difficulty Number of possible solutions Group interest in solving problem Member knowledge of problem Level of acceptance of solution

DISCUSSION QUESTION • Central question of the problem facing the group • Avoid either-or questions • Word question concretely • Avoid suggesting answer

PROCEDURAL MODEL OF PROBLEM-SOLVING (P-MOPS)- OVERVIEW - • Step 1 – Describe the Problem • Step 2 – Generate Solutions • Step 3 – Evaluate Solutions • Step 4 – Decision Making • Step 5 – Decision Implementing

P-MOPS Describing the Problem • Understand the charge (assignment) • State question clearly • Look at problem before discussing solutions • Make outline & schedule • Summarize problem • Spotlight key issues

P-MOPS Generate Solutions • Avoid “group communication flaw” (closing down discussion too soon) • ALL members must be active participants

P-MOPS Evaluate Solutions • Create criteria (standards & guidelines) for evaluation • Narrow list of solutions • Combine similar ideas • Allow each member to vote on top 3 • Chart pros & cons • Use technology to help if available

P-MOPS Choose Best Solution • Stages of decision-making • Orientation stage • Conflict stage • Decision emergence stage • Reinforcement stage

P-MOPS Choose Best Solution, 2 • Methods of decision-making • By group leader • By consultation • Voting • Consensus • Test solution using RISK • Identify risks or problems • Post evaluations on chart • Circulate master list of risks to members • Discuss list; retain serious problems

P-MOPS Implement a Solution • Questions to ask: • Who will do what, when, & how? • How will we write & present report? • How to word motion, and who speaks in favor? • What follow-up will we conduct?

P-MOPS Implement a Solution, 2 • Program Evaluation & Review (PERT) • Describe fully implemented solution • List what must happen before goal achieved • Develop flow diagram of procedure & steps • List all needed activities, materials, people • Estimate time needed to accomplish each step • Compare estimated time with deadline • Determine who is responsible for what

CHAPTER SEVEN: Problem Solving and Decision Making in Groups