Questions and Topics We Can Help You To Answer:

PROBLEM SOLVING STEPS:

Step 1:  Summarize the Case

Take notes on events, issues, relationships, actions and reactions.

Write a summary focusing on key events, decisions, actions and counter actions.

Be succinct, avoid extraneous details.

Step 2: Identify the central problem.

The problem is stated in the case.  You should restate it here in your own words.  It is important that you note the difference between the primary problem and symptoms of this problem.

Step 3: Justify problem.

Present factual evidence for the problem.

      Inferences must be supported by the events in the case and logically drawn.    You should use concepts from the course to help support your justification.

Step 4: Identify potential solutions.

Document potential solutions (3-5) to the problem, ensuring that each logically flows from the problem definition.

Your solutions should not be a series of steps.

Each solution must be a separate solution that, if implemented, will solve the problem on its own.

Each potential solution must be supported by logical reasoning and examples.

Potential solutions should reflect integration of course concepts.

Step 5:  Reframe (analyze) key elements of case, paying particular attention to the efficacy of your potential solutions (This does not need to be written into your report.).

Reframe the key elements of the case, paying particular attention to the efficacy of your potential solutions and their relationship to the problem as defined.

      Reframing is a re-capitulated summary that expresses your conclusions based on fact, inference, course concepts, and scholarly research.

Step 6:  Propose a specific solution.

Based on your review of the potential solutions, course concepts and scholarly research, select one of the solutions analyzed in step 4.

Step 7:  Justify your specific solution.

Fully support your solution in step 6 by citing course concepts, tools, outside research, etc.

Step 8:  Develop a plan for implementing and evaluating your proposed solution.

Develop a plan for implementing (e.g., a Gantt chart) and evaluating (e.g., control plan) your proposed solution.

Any plan should be well documented and reflect support for your strategy and tactics from the course and reflect a clear understanding of the course’s central concepts.