Problem solving
Featured in the The Project Management Activity Pack training manual
By Eddie Davies
Category: Management
Credit price: 4 download credits (Single user)
Projects are complex, and unpredictable events will occur regardless of how thoroughly you have planned. Any plan is only an estimate of what we think may happen in the future. We weigh up past events, estimate probabilities and forecast what we think will happen in the future. In problem solving, try not to worry about the word ‘problem’ but try to see it as a ‘challenge’, as an opportunity to make progress.
You introduce the training activity by establishing that all managers have to deal with problems – it’s a central part of their role. You ask the participants to identify how they currently approach problem solving at work. They then compare and contrast this with a systematic approach to problem solving, a well established seven-step approach. Each of the seven steps is discussed an explored in some detail. You spend considerable time on step four, introducing the participants to brainstorming and setting an exercise that requires two participants to identify a real current problem suitable for use in the exercise. You complete the systematic approach and the training activity by getting the participants to monitor and review their learning. They compile their learning review diary, if appropriate. They then make action plans to use the new skills and knowledge back at their workplace.
Who is it for: This training resource is intended for use by trainers to introduce participants to a systematic approach to problem solving.
| Resource Type: | Activity |
| Min Group Size: | 4 |
| Max Group Size: | 20 |
| Typical Duration: | 03:15:00 |
| No of Pages: | 27 |
Resources: View standard resources for Fenman training activities
Purpose: This training resource is intended for use by trainers within any foundation course that aims to develop project management skills. The ability to solve problems effectively is a core skill for all project managers. Problem solving is both a general management and a life skill. This training activity is equally applicable to a wide variety of other training events. It has been used successfully on introduction to management, team leadership and team development, counselling and personal problem solving, assertiveness, time and stress management, and meetings skills courses.
Download the training activity, Problem solving as featured in the Fenman training manual; The Project Management Activity Pack