PROBLEM SOLVING (FROM RAPID SKILL BUILDER SERIES)-

Effective critical thinking and problem-solving skills are crucial for both individual and organisational success. Failing to accurately identify problems or failing to resolve them can result in adverse effects on sales, market share, expenses, customer and employee satisfaction, as well as profit and shareholder dividends. For organizations such as hospitals, government departments, or emergency services, the consequences can be even more serious.

People at all levels in an organization experience work-related problems on a regular basis. Some of these problems are quite minor, such as the photocopier constantly jamming. Others will be major, such as the decision to invest in a new international venture. Some of these problems are technical, for example a virus affecting the computer systems, while others are people-related, such as inadequate communication between two departments. Regardless of the nature and the dimension of the problem you come across, being able to identify and resolve the issue so that organizational performance can be continuously improved and new innovations can be developed is crucial.