Problem Solving

Problem solving

Introduction

A problem-solving mindset may help solve both individual and professional problems that hinder effective and efficient management of the business. Notably, solving other people or organization problems cannot help an individual to solve his or her problems considering that they are solely responsible for their problems. For people solve their problems, they ought to develop mindfulness, which is an acute awareness of what is affecting their minds and thoughts and then take the necessary measurements to change those thoughts that cause problems. Additionally, problem-solving can consist of activities and actions that systematically utilize specially appointed procedures in a systematic way to discover the answers to issues (Ferguson Publishing, 2009). Moreover, a portion of the critical thinking skills utilized to solve daily problems such as artificial intelligence and computer science which are identified with mental critical thinking techniques contemplated in brain research. Therefore, the problem-solving process begins with the identification of the cause of the problem before setting on a journey in search of a solution to the problem (Whimbey, Lochhead, & Narode, 2013). This assignment will focus on identifying and analyzing the six steps to problem-solving as well as using a scenario to elaborate on these steps. The study will scenario one to present its ideas and concepts regarding problem-solving.

Define the problem in the chosen scenario

The primary problem with this scenario is the choice the employee has either to take the new job or remain in his old position.  The employee has been working for this organization for11 years, and the organization has always supported him, particularly when it comes to his education by offering education incentive which has enabled him to enroll for bachelors.  On the other hand, a new firm approaches him with a new offer of a $15,000 salary increase but does not have an education incentive which may hurt his chances of advancing his education, yet the new firm requires all their employees to have a master’s degree.  Therefore, moving to the new firm will force him to advance his education to masters level and sticking with his old employee denies him the chance to enjoy a $15, 000 salary increase and car allowance. The overall problem breaks down to either education advancement or monetary gain considering that this employee cannot have them both.

Analyze the problem in the scenario

The employee in question is faced with a dilemma of either accepting the new job that offers a pay rise of $ 15, 000 or stick with his old employer who offers a lower compensation package but offers tuition incentive to enable him to advance his education. Having worked for his current employer for eleven years, he has developed into a reliable and hard working employee and earned the trust of his supervisor.  As a way of showing gratitude, the supervisor has recommended him for a higher paying organization in another state which can lead to further career growth and advancement.  However, after critically analyzing both scenarios, the employee is reluctant to accept the new offer.  Despite the fact that a pay rise and car allowance can be appealing to most employees, he knows that this offer will lead to a loss of tuition incentive. Currently, he is pursuing a bachelor’s degree with the help of the current employer who subsidizes his tuition fee.  The new company has a compulsory requirement where all employees are required to hold a masters degree.  This means that this employee has to undertake a Masters degree immediately after the bachelor’s degree through his means such as loans and personal savings as there is no tuition incentive in this organization.

Generate options for solving the problem in the scenario

Considering that this employee is reliant and hard working, he should bargain for the best offer he can get.  There are three basic solutions to his problem at hand.  First, he should talk to the new firm in an attempt to make them delay the start date so that he can complete his bachelor’s exams that are in two weeks time. If he takes a new position before he has completed the course, he will push it further into the future, and this may hurt his education advancement plans. If the company agrees, he will have an ample time to complete the course and clear with the current employer.  Secondly, he can talk to the new firm regarding tuition incentive despite the fact that they do not formally offer it.  However, they can make an arrangement on how they can subsidize or finance his master’s education and this could be something that they offer regarding accepting their job offer. If the company agrees, he can enjoy the salary increase and tuition incentive.  Finally, he can try to talk to the current employer about a possible pay rise considering that e has already worked for the company for eleven years where he has given it all his effort and time. Having given such great recommendation about him to other companies, it could only make sense to keep him close and offer him a better compensation package since he is an important asset to them.

Evaluate the option for solving the problem

If the new company agrees to delay the reporting date, the employee will have time to finish his exams, clear with the current employer as well as research more information about the new company and the work environment. Despite offering a good pay package, the company may not be as good as the current employer regarding financial stability, going concern, and work environment.  Additionally, if the company refuses to offer tuition incentives, the employee should find a way to finance his education to make sure that he is in level with other employees in the company.  Finally, if the current employer decides to offer a pay rise and keep him, he should gladly accept the offer and stick with him, considering that he can enjoy all the goodies at the same place.

Decide on the best option for solving the problem

Since the employee knows everything about his current employer having worked for him for eleven years, it would only make sense if he can ask for a pay rise so that he can stick around and help achieve the organizational goals and objectives. Moving to a new environment would eventually disrupt his work and may take time to adjust to a new setting. However, sticking around can give him an opportunity to advance his education through subsidy which will be advantageous in the long-run.

Explain how you will implement the decision made and reflect on whether this was the most effective

Owing to the good working relationship between the employer and the employee, the employee can directly ask his supervisor for a pay rise in a friendly manner while stating his reasons for sticking around rather than taking the new job.  The current employer would eventually put the proposal into consideration and give the employee his decision after some time. If he agrees, the employee can go on to finish his exams and then report to work as usual.

From the above case study, it is easy to point out that problem-solving requires critical thinking where an individual is required to weigh the options and solution to the problem before eventually settling into one. All the three alternatives would have worked for the employee, but asking for a pay rise and sticking around would be the best.

References

Ferguson Publishing. (2009). Problem solving. New York: Ferguson.

 Week 9 Assignment 2: Problem Solving. Scenario 1. Strayer University Blackboard 2015

Whimbey, A., Lochhead, J., & Narode, R. (2013). Problem solving and comprehension.   New York: Taylor & Francis.