1. Introduction to the Problem Solving Process
1.1 Six Phases (Pascarella, 1997, p. 38)
1.1.1 Recognizing the need for a decision
1.1.5 Selecting the best alternative
1.2 Resolving Conflict in the Process
2. Recognizing the Need for a Decision
2.1.1 Possibly the most important step in the decision making process.
2.1.2 Situation cannot be resolved without recognizing there is a decision that needs to be made.
2.2 Organizational Structure and Decisions
2.2.1.1 Many healthcare organizations, including hospitals, are hierarchical.
2.2.1.2 Responsibility for recognizing the need for a decision in a hierarchical organization rests with the manager (Brache & Rummler, 1997, p. 70).
2.3.1 Brainstorming (Webber-Jones, 1999, p. 32).
2.3.1.1 All participants have equal voice.
2.3.1.2 No idea is initially evaluated on merit.
2.3.1.3 Larger number of ideas generated than by single individual working alone.
2.3.1.4 Evaluation takes place after all ideas are identified.
2.3.2.1 Identifies inputs and outputs.
2.3.2.2 Pictorial illustration can identify areas of dependency and conflict
2.3.2.3 Makes it easier to identify far reaching effects.
2.3.2.4 Can be used by individuals or within group setting.
3.1.1 Root causes of a problem determine objectives of a particular decision.
3.1.2 Decision making techniques are used against these objectives.
3.2.1 Alternatives will be weighed against various objectives.
3.2.2 Alternatives which are consistent with these objectives are considered further.
3.3.3 Empowered employees can later use objectives to consider future decisions without escalating those decisions to the group level.
4.1.2 Consider existing processes (it may not be necessary to change current strategies).
4.2.1 Recognize that no organization can evaluate all possible alternatives; limitations of time and money prevent this approach.
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