====== Problem-Solving Disciplines ====== ===== Business Methods ===== //There are many disciplines and methods that can be applied to business problem solving. This page enumerates some that have been applied by [[MBB]] and recommendations for when each method might be employeed.// ---- ****Page Under Development**** ---- ===== Strategic Problem-Solving Methods ===== ==== SWOT Analysis ==== Focus: Assess strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Use: Strategic planning and decision-making. === Porter’s Five Forces === Focus: Analyze competitive forces in an industry. Use: Strategic positioning and understanding market dynamics. == Blue Ocean Strategy == Focus: Create uncontested market space by innovating value. Use: Market disruption and innovation. ===== Analytical and Structured Problem-Solving ===== == Root Cause Analysis (RCA) == Focus: Identify the root cause of a problem. Techniques: 5 Whys, Fishbone Diagram. == PDCA Cycle (Plan-Do-Check-Act) == Focus: Continuous improvement through iterative cycles. Use: Quality and process improvements. == Six Sigma DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) == Focus: Data-driven process improvement. Use: Reduce variation and defects. == Lean Thinking == Focus: Eliminate waste, improve flow, and deliver value to the customer. Use: Operational efficiency and productivity. ===== Creative Problem-Solving Techniques ===== == Design Thinking == Focus: Human-centered innovation through empathy and iteration. Phases: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, Test. == Brainstorming == Focus: Generate creative solutions in a collaborative environment. Use: Ideation and innovation. == TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solving) == Focus: Systematic innovation by analyzing patterns of invention. Use: Engineering and complex systems. ===== Decision-Making Frameworks ===== == Decision Matrix Analysis == Focus: Evaluate options based on weighted criteria. Use: Prioritization and choosing the best alternative. == Cost-Benefit Analysis == Focus: Compare costs and benefits of a decision. Use: Financial decision-making. == Scenario Planning == Focus: Envision multiple future outcomes and plan accordingly. Use: Strategic risk management. ===== Collaborative and System-Oriented Approaches ===== === Agile Methodology === Focus: Adaptability and collaboration for iterative solutions. Use: Software development and project management. == Systems Thinking == Focus: Understand interdependencies within complex systems. Use: Holistic problem-solving. == Kaizen == Focus: Continuous, incremental improvements involving all employees. Use: Organizational culture and efficiency. ===== Behavioral and Leadership Techniques ===== == Conflict Resolution Models == Examples: Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI). Use: Resolving interpersonal or team disputes. == Change Management Frameworks == Examples: Kotter’s 8-Step Process, ADKAR Model. Use: Managing organizational transitions effectively. == Emotional Intelligence (EI) == Focus: Leverage emotional awareness in decision-making. Use: Leadership and team dynamics. ===== Technology and Data-Driven Methods ===== == Data Analytics and Business Intelligence == Tools: Predictive analytics, dashboards, AI. Use: Data-driven insights for problem-solving. == Scenario Modeling and Simulation == Focus: Test solutions in virtual environments. Use: Risk analysis and planning. ----