Problem Solving and Decision Making

Participants learn to define problems clearly, validate root causes, generate options, and select solutions using evidence-based tools. 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: • Apply a structured problem-solving process using the PDCA framework. • Define workplace problems accurately using clear statements, facts, scope, and impact. • Identify and validate root causes using 5 Whys, Fishbone, Pareto, 5W1H, and Is / Is Not analysis. • Generate creative alternatives through brainstorming, brainwriting, affinity mapping, and SCAMPER. • Evaluate options objectively using decision, impact-effort, and risk matrices. • Translate selected solutions into SMART, role-based implementation plans with clear milestones. • Monitor results, compare performance, make corrective adjustments, and standardize improvements. • 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 **** 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