Are you a good problem solver? Improve your skills by moving from a people-centric process to a principle-based one

Citation

Gano, D.L. (2012), "Are you a good problem solver? Improve your skills by moving from a people-centric process to a principle-based one", Strategic Direction, Vol. 28 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sd.2012.05628baa.007

Are you a good problem solver? Improve your skills by moving from a people-centric process to a principle-based one

Article Type: Abstracts From: Strategic Direction, Volume 28, Issue 2

Gano D.L.Quality Progress, May 2011, Vol. 44 No. 5, Start page: 30, No of pages: 6

Argues that traditional problem solving strategies tend to be subjective and focused on people, rather than being objective and based on sound principles. Explains that such traditional problem solving strategies work by chance, not by design, and also revolve around casual observation and adopting such approaches as linear thinking, categorization, storytelling, belief in a single reality, and root cause myth. Continues this historical review of problem solving techniques by outlining the principles of causation, where some cause and effect principles include: that causes and effects are the same thing; that causes exist in an infinite continuum; that each effect has at least two causes in the form of actions and conditions; and that an effect exists only if its causes exist in the same space and time-frame. Concludes that, to continue to use people-centric problem solving processes instead of principles-based strategies is unacceptable, and there is a need to redefine the protocol for finding effective solutions to event-type problems.ISSN: 0033-524XArticle type: ViewpointReference: 40AS879 (Permanent URL)

Keywords: Management techniques, Managerial strategy, Problem solving