The Psychology of Problem Solving and Decision Making

• Introduction: Why study problem solving and decision making
• A synopsis of psychological thought
• Values, Problem Solving and Bias in Decision Making
• Psychological type and Lateral Thinking for Problem Solving
• Psychometric assessment on your problem-solving preferences
• Using a team approach to encourage structured and lateral thinking

Problem solving, the cognitive process and whole brain thinking

•  Problem solving: the highest order cognitive process
• Split brain theory to make informed and balanced decisions
• Developing openness to new ideas in making decisions
• The model of creative problem solving
• Lessons in facing the unexpected events
• Decision Making and the Management of Change

Creating Continuous Improvement in the Workplace

• Encouraging creative problem solving for continuous improvement
• Appreciative Enquiry and a focus on positive dialogues
• Solution focus methodology: a radical transformational approach to solving problems
• Diagnostic tools for organizational improvement
• The Disney Creative Thinking Strategy
• Using techniques to innovate and improve process and product

Building Creative Capability in Self and Removing Mental

• ‘How creative am I’? Challenging self-imposed assumptions
• Thinking outside the box and ‘Imagineering’: current examples from technology
• ‘Curiosity’: using the multiple intelligences of Leonardo da Vinci
• A model for organizational innovation

What is Decision Making?

• The nature of decisions and types of decisions companies make
• Sequence of decision-making process
• Techniques of how to choose the right Decision

Human Information Processing and Decision Traps

• How stereotypes can bias your decisions
• The Factors Influencing Decision-Making
• The implications of deciding in groups
• The benefits and potential pitfalls of group decision making

Creativity in Decision Making

• Ways to prevent assumptions from blocking creativity in each stage of problem solving
• Cognitive processes: the act of creativity
• Techniques for effective brainstorming

Analyze the Impact of Your Actions

• Approach a Decision through “Six Thinking Hats”
• Visualize your decision-making process
• Analyze your options in a logical sequence
• PMI Approach