GUIDELINES TO NRDC feb 24 2014

Chapter SummaryKey points This table summarizes key section points or information blocks:Topic Summary PageObjectives x Use a six-step procedure to solve problems.x Apply adaptive techniques to make decisions.x Recognize psychological barriers to making decisions.x Increase decision-making power.x Explain why effective managers should not be problem solvers.ProblemsolvingstepsStep 1StepAction1 Define the problem.2 Gather information.3 Develop alternatives.4 Weigh alternatives.5 Select the best alternative.6 Obtain approval and implement the solution.Define the problem by stating it in one of these forms:x Infinitive phrase.x Statement of need.x Question.Submit statement to decision maker to confirm agreement.Step 2 Early solutions: Early in research focus information gathering on 5-4possible solutions. Or much information gathered will prove irrelevant.Organizex Assumptions. x Facts.5-4information x Constraints. x Opinions.x Criteria. x Definitions.Assumptions x Suppositions are statements taken to be true but unproved.5-5x They serve as a substitute for facts when unavailable.x Discard assumptions when facts overtake them or if proved invalid.x Don't use too many assumptions--you'll assume away problem.Step 3 Analyze information to--5-6x Reject unsuitable alternatives.x Pursue promising alternatives.x Discover new alternatives.x Combine them.x Identify alternatives needing more information.Criteria Criteria to accept/reject alternatives: suitable, feasible, and acceptable. 5-6Beforex Screen out unsuitable alternatives.5-6completing x Screen remaining alternatives for feasibility and acceptability.researchx Identify potential disagreements.5-25-3NRDC GRC – Staff Handbook 5-15