TASK GROUP PROBLEM-SOLVING "STANDARD AGENDA"
by Lee McGaan

based on John Dewey's "Reflective Thinking Model" and Randy Hirokawa's Functional Group Decision-making" Research

  I. Problem Definition:

      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. Solution Needs OR Criteria Weighting

      B. Solution Wants 

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 (not voting)

[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.
 

last updated 10/26/11