Solving Workplace Problems A 4.0 Hour Classroom Course from the Leadership PLUS Series

Many people view a problem as a deviation from an expected outcome – results are wrong, procedures were faulty, or some other aspect of the project is not successful.   In the workplace, solving problems is not only addressing issues and problems as they arise but also involves looking at the way things are currently being done to find better ways of doing them. The major problem encountered in solving problems occurs when the root cause is not properly defined or identified. In the rush to finish a project, people often jump to conclusions and take action on the first solution that appears when most times there are multiple solutions. Determining the best solution requires a problem solving process.

Solving Workplace Problems provides an effective approach and the tools necessary for improving current processes that organizations use to solve organizational problems. Through structured activities, participants learn how to identify the problem, identify the cause, select the best solution, implement the solution, and determine what feedback and follow-up will be required.

Program Description

Solving Workplace Problems teaches managers a five-step process that combines a variety of methods to provide an effective approach to solving simple to complex organizational problems. Each step of the process is explained in detail. Participants have the opportunity to be involved in group discussions, apply the process learned using a case study, and finally apply the solution to their own problem. Managers leave the workshop with implementation tools, forms, and additional resources to help them apply the skills learned back on the job.

After completing this course, participants will be able to: Write a problem statement that clearly defines the workplace problem. Assess the context of the problem. Analyze and identify the root cause(s) of the problem. Involve team members in evaluation of root cause(s) and a possible solution. Create plans to implement the solution. Get agreement and support for implementation.

Impact to Your Organization

Managers and team leaders will be able to: Identify the problem; write problem statements, identify the magnitude, and decide to act. Identify the cause; identify symptoms and list possible causes. Select the best solution; generate alternatives and weigh the alternatives against the criteria. Implementthe solution; evaluate resources, assign tasks, and set completion dates. Follow-up and feedback; identify feedback and criteria to measure progress as well as the follow-up needed.

Course Materials

Facilitator Guide Complete instructions on how to conduct the workshop. Explanatory text for the trainer, sample trainer narrative, and facilitation notes. Facilitator Resource CD-ROM containing PowerPoint presentation, additional resources,  and reproducible pages from the facilitator guide as well as a participant workbook. Participant Workbook Exercises, forms, case studies, Troubleshooting Guide, and skill practice aids for the five-step process.  Job Aids section with tools and resources for applying the skills learned in the workshop. Memory Jogger Card that provides a handy reminder of the workshop’s skill points.

Order the Administrator Kit

Order the Participant Workbook

Review the contents of Leadership Essentials   Leadership PLUS Courses: Hiring Winning Talent - Classroom or online   Retaining Winning Talent  - Classroom Leading Successful Projects - Classroom Motivating Team Members - Classroom or online Solving Workplace Problems - Classroom   Developing and Coaching Others - Team Leader Version - Classroom or online Developing and Coaching Others - Senior Management Version - Classroom

Leadership Series courses are products of Vital Learning Corp., Omaha, NE