Solving problems in the business world is essential to keeping things moving along smoothly. While problems differ in complexity, almost all of them can be approached in a structured manner that increases the chances of finding a successful solution. Researchers who are able to master this structured approach and apply it practically, from research to execution, are an asset to any organization.

Course objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Define a problem and ensure that the 'right' question is being answered
• Justify breaking down a problem into smaller issues that can be tackled independently
• Create a work plan that prioritizes resources and focuses on the key issues
• Identify the right sources for data through research and expert interviews
• Interpret data and build a structured argument for findings
• Develop a structured story to present to management
• Explain findings to team members and senior leadership

Course outlines

• Overview of the role of the researcher
• The changing role of the researcher
• Adding value to your organization
• Active data gathering
• Overview of problem-solving approaches
• Generating creative solutions
• Excellence versus creativity
• Decision making and choosing alternatives
• Structuring problems
• The importance of structuring
• Defining the right issue
• Using the issue statement
• Dividing issues into manageable sections
• The use of logic trees in problem solving
• Developing issue trees
• Prioritizing and planning
• The importance of prioritizing work
• Eliminating non-essential issues
• Using the 80:20 rule
• Prioritization methodologies
• Using the prioritization matrix
• Developing practical project plans
• Building an effective work plan
• The concept of synergy
• Characteristics of high performing teams
• Conducting analyses
• Getting the right data
• Types of research
• Primary research Effectiveness
• Secondary research Effectiveness
• Conducting informational interviews
• Active listening
• Guided dialogue
• Asking 'so what'
• Summary versus synthesis
• Communicating and presenting
• Turning data into findings
• Building effective arguments
• The pros and cons of different argument types
• Top down communication
• Communicating findings by telling a 'story'
• Story telling elements
• Designing powerful presentations
• Presenting to senior management
• Continuous improvement

Who should attend

New and advanced analysts and project managers who are involved in researching, analyzing and investigating issues related to their organization.

Methodology

This course relies on the use of an interactive case study, developed specifically for this course, to demonstrate the different components of effective problem solving. In addition to the customized case, this course utilizes individual debriefs, group discussions, role playing, and presentations.