Table of Contents
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.