Kepner-Tregoe Problem Solving Model
One of the most useful thinking and planning tools I learnt about in my early days of my degree was the use of who, what, why, where, when and how along with the Kepner-Tregoe model of including Is and Is not to each of those questions. Here, creative sector coach and mentor Alec McPhedran gives a brief introduction to Kepner-Tregoe problem solving. The Kepner-Tregoe (KT) problem-solving model is a structured methodology for decision-making and problem-solving. Developed by Charles H. Kepner and Benjamin B. Tregoe in the 1960s, this model helps individuals and organizations systematically approach problems, make well-informed decisions, and implement solutions effectively. The model consists of four main steps: Situation Appraisal, Problem Analysis, Decision Analysis, and Potential Problem Analysis. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each step: 1. Situation Appraisal This step involves clarifying the situation to understand and prioritize issues. The key activities include: Listing Concerns: Identify and list all the concerns, problems, or opportunities. Prioritizing: Evaluate the concerns based on urgency, timing, and significance to determine the order of addressing them. Clarifying: Gather more information to clearly understand the context and nature of each concern. 2. Problem Analysis This step focuses on identifying the root cause of a specific problem. The activities include: Defining the Problem: Describe the problem in detail, specifying what, where, when, and to what extent it is happening. Distinguishing Problems from Symptoms: Differentiate between the symptoms (effects) and the underlying problems (causes). Testing Possible Causes: Develop hypotheses for possible causes of the problem and test them against the facts. Confirming the True Cause: Identify and confirm the true cause of the problem through systematic analysis and verification. 3. Decision Analysis This step aids in making decisions when there are multiple alternatives. The activities include: Clarifying the Purpose: Define the objective or goal of the decision. Identifying Alternatives: Generate a list of potential alternatives to achieve the objective. Evaluating Alternatives: Assess each alternative based on its risks, benefits, and feasibility. Making the Decision: Choose the best alternative that aligns with the objectives and provides the maximum benefit with acceptable risk. 4. Potential Problem Analysis This step involves foreseeing and planning for potential problems that could arise from the decision or solution implementation. The activities include: Identifying Potential Problems: List possible problems that could occur when implementing the decision. Evaluating Risks: Assess the likelihood and impact of each potential problem. Developing Preventive Actions: Plan actions to prevent or minimize the occurrence of identified problems. Planning Contingent Actions: Prepare contingency plans to mitigate the impact if problems do occur The Kepner-Tregoe approach is designed to provide a clear, structured tool to problem-solving and decision-making. By systematically appraising the situation, analysing the problem, making informed decisions, and planning for potential issues, individuals and organizations can achieve more effective and reliable outcomes. Alec McPhedran Chtd Fellow CIPD, Chtd Mngr CMI, MAC, MCMI is a recognised creative sector coach and mentor. He specialises in one to one talent coaching, facilitated learning, media training and team development. For further information, visit www.mcphedran.co.uk. Copyright © Alec McPhedran 2024
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AuthorAlec McPhedran is a long established creative arts coach and mentor. Archives
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