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Problem Solving and
Decision Making:
Overview

We solve problems
and make decisions
everyday/all the day

• Problem solving overview ◄
• Defining and gathering
• Alternatives
• Creative problem solving solutions
• Implementation
• Prioritizing tasks
• Graphic overview of  problem solving process
• Adaptive decision making
• Managing by exception
• Thinking creatively

We solve problems and make decisions everyday/all the day:
at home, at work, at play, even at the grocery store! 

Some problems and decisions are very challenging, 
and require a lot of thought, emotion, and research.  The steps of this guide are designed to help you make good decisions
Good luck!

Flexibility

This procedure looks as if one moves neatly from step to step. This isn't the case.  These steps simply provide a structure for working on the problem.

They overlap: you may have to return to earlier steps, or work them simultaneously,
to find the best solution.

Examples of flexibility:

• Information gathering occurs in all steps—from recognition of the problem to implementation of its solution
• New information may force you to redefine the problem
• Alternatives may be unworkable, and you'll have to find new ones
• Some steps may be combined or abbreviated

Step 2:  Defining the problem & gathering information

Adapted with permission from
Beckno, John, Action Officer, Chapter 3, Army's Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command, Fort Monroe, Virginia

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 Website overview: Since 1996 the Study Guides and Strategies web site has been researched, authored, maintained and supported by Joe Landsberger as an international, learner-centric, educational public service. Permission is granted to freely copy, adapt, and distribute individual Study Guides in print format in non-commercial educational settings that benefit learners. Please be aware that the Guides welcome, and are under, continuous review and revision. For that reason, digitization and reproduction of all content on the Internet can only be with permission through a licensed agreement. Linking to the Guides is encouraged! Full disclaimer on use