The ABCDE Decision Making Model.
5Ws and 1H
You can solve a problem as the one above by asking the 5Ws and 1H questions that are pertinent.
For example, the above video steps come from 5Ws and 1H.
What?
Where
When
How much (Extent)
SOAP (H&P with A/P) is an excellent problem-solving strategy.
It is is very similar to GROWTH technique and other techniques for solving problems within companies.
OPQRST-A and SOCRATES can be used in defining a problem.
OPQRST-A
- Onset and Setting
- Precipitating/Palliating factors (Anything that makes the problem better or worse?)
- Quality
- Region and Radiation
- Severity and Extent
- Timing
- Associated Manifestations.
SOCRATES
- Setting or Situation.
- Onset – When did the problem start? Was it sudden or gradual? Include also whether if it is progressive or regressive.
- Characterize the problem. What is the problem like?
- Region and Radiation – Where is the problem? Does the problem radiate anywhere?
- Associations – Any other problems associated with this problem?
- Timing of the problem. Does it follow any pattern?
- Exacerbating/Relieving factors – What makes this problem better or worse?
- Severity and Extent– How bad is the problem? What is the extent of the problem company wide?
The Pareto Principle (The 80/20 rule)
This started with the observation by Vilfredo Pareto that 80% of the land in Italy was owned by 20% of the people. The 80/20 rule applies to a lot of other things.  For example, 80% of your problems probably come from 20% of your customers and 80% of your problems will come from 20% of the causes. Also, 80% of your results are produced by 20% of your employees. Knowing this is a very helpful thing in problem-solving.Â
Focused and Diffused Modes
Use both the Focused and Diffused Modes of your brain to solve problems.
What prevents good decision making?
Not enough info
Too much info
Too many people
Emotions
3 Styles of Decisions
Inactive
Reactive
Proactive
Responding/Reacting
DADD acronym for decision making
Define the problem.
Alternative solutions.
Decide
Do it.
Define the decision clearly.
Consider all the possible choices.
Gather all relevant information and evaluate all the pros and cons of each possible choice.
Select the choice that seems to best meet the needs of the situation.
Implement a plan of action and then monitor the results, making necessary adjustments.Â
Resources
https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTED_00.htm
