A. Define the Problem Area

1. word the problem
2. define key and related terms

B. Analyze the Problem (information gathering)

1. evidence of a problem -- symptoms, needs/wants, etc.?
2. causes and effects of the problem? [different from B.1.!]
3. external constraints on the situation?

C.  Set the Overall GOAL (by consensus)

II. Criteria Development:

(Criteria are statements which establish what the group feels any solution adopted should accomplish. List possible criteria as measurable desired outcomes (not actions or methods); then seek consensus on the final criteria to be used in evaluating solutions)

A. Don by determining Solution Needs (essentials) then Solution Wants

B.  OR by Weighting the Criteria in terms of importance

III. Solution Generation: (MORE SOLUTIONS ARE BETTER THAN FEW!!)

A. Can aspects of the present situation be retained?

B. What needs revision?

1. major change (i.e. creating a whole new system)

2. minor change (i.e. fixing the present system)

techniques: Brainstorming, Delphi, synectics, etc.

ALL CRITICISM OF PROPOSED SOLUTIONS IS POSTPONED UNTIL STEP IV

IV. Solution Assessment and Selection:

A. Assess the degree to which solutions meet the criteria (II.A & B.)

B. Combine parts of various solutions as useful

C. Select THE best solution by group consensus

[Consider strengths and weaknesses of all the proposed solutions.]

V. Implementation Planning:

A. Establish implementation objectives (what obstacles must be overcome? WHO does WHAT? WHEN? Costs? etc.)

B. Select and use an implementation procedure (e.g. PERT, PPBS, etc.) 

VI. Review and Evaluate:

A. Assess the effectiveness of the group's task and social processes

B. Re-evaluate the plan before implementation -- second chance session.

C. Evaluate plan and process after implementation

NOTE: If the task requires logical problem solving and efficiency, the order shown above is effective. If the task requires more creativity reverse steps II & III.