Analyzing the Decision-Making and Problem Solving Processes

Analyzing the Decision-Making and Problem-Solving Processes

Lori Gordon

BSAD-E2FF

Professor David Kerr

January 11, 2017

        My personal definition of problem-solving is finding a solution to a problem. When I wake up, my teeth feel dirty, which is a problem, so I solve this by brushing my teeth. I have mentally started a checklist of things I need to accomplish, and just checked that one off the list. Problems may be much more involved and would require such steps as thinking about the problem, finding several solutions, narrowing down the options, and putting the solution in place.

        Decision-making is more about using real thought processes to carefully examine a problem and a solution. In my opinion, decision-making is something I would do in a carefully thought-out process. For instance, if I need to purchase a new stove, this is a major decision that takes careful planning and input (of my spouse), financing, a serious shopping.

        The most important steps in my decision-making process would include:

1)        First I would identifying the problem. I need a new stove as mine is not fully operational.

2)        How big/serious is the problem? The burners still work, so I can cook, but I cannot bake.

The stove is 17 years old and has served its purpose, so it would not be logical to repair it. My husband and I would like to relocate, so we must replace the stove eventually.

3)        What must be considered as important in this decision? My husband and I would need to

consider prices, size, color, free delivery of new stove, and free removal of old stove. We can include stoves that are dented on the sides as they will not be visible.

4)        Researching alternatives can be accomplished by online research and personal observation.  Word-of-mouth may be helpful, if anyone we know has recently purchased a major appliance, so we may do an online survey on Facebook.

                The processes used in my purchase of a new appliance would be very helpful in business management. Identifying the problem, considering the scope of the problem, setting specific parameters or guidelines, and researching alternatives to find solutions are very practical. Keeping focused on the problem is the key to decision-making as solutions may need to be tried, recycled, and tried again. More steps may need to be added to the process if the business problem is huge or extremely urgent.