Introduction
Problem-solving is considered as a strategic approach that is used in management to provide solutions. According to Barret and Tolbert (1) the process of problem-solving provides individuals with a better approach of controlling or addressing an issue. Thus, the six-step problem-solving process is a well-thought out step by step guide that provides an individual with the approach to follow in identifying a problem and providing a solution to it. The case presented in scenario 1 shows a situation whereby I am faced with a dilemma, and I am expected to make a decision that will suit me best and my career. However, I am divided between staying in a job which provides me with the chance to continue with my studies or move to another job where I will get a salary increment. The six-step problem solving process will be applied in this scenario in order to come up with a solution.
Step One: Define the problem
This step involves identifying and understanding the underlying issues. Most authors agree that problem solving requires one to deal with the challenges presented and understanding the consequences that underlie their decisions (Hoover et al., 2). The main issue in this scenario is the dilemma that I face as an employee; whether to stick with an organization that provides me with an opportunity to advance in my education and career opportunities or move to an organization that promises me financial incentives.
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The current company that I am working in covers my education costs whereas the other company does not. Therefore, if I move to the other company I will be promoted to a supervisor position, which requires a master’s degree. Although I will have the chance to advance my education in the new company, I may end up straining financially since the company does not cover tuition fees. On the other hand, if I decide to stick with my current company I will have the opportunity of completing my education without any financial constraints.
Step Two: Analyze the problem
The situation to be analyzed in this case is the issue of financial stability and the current cost of living. Creative thinking techniques and brainstorming are mandatory when analyzing a problem as they provide a person with different perspectives to look at when addressing an issue (Kerzner, 3). I have been a loyal employee in the current company, for 11 years and I have dedicated my time and efforts in ensuring that I perform well in my current position. As a result, the supervisor has recognized my commitment as an employee and identifies the existing vacancy in the other company as an opportunity for me to be promoted. However, I am hesitant to take up the new opportunity. This is because; even though the new company guarantees a salary increment it does not offer the chance for its employees to advance their education.
Secondly, since I am currently pursuing a bachelor degree, which I have not yet completed yet the requirement to move into the new job is to report within two weeks. This will mean that I will have to stop my education before completing. Therefore, if I decide to move to the new job, I will be required to postpone my graduation date. This means that I will now have to start paying for my tuition, which may result to a financial burden.
Step Three: Generate options
In this scenario I would have three options to choose from. The first option is to ask the new employer to delay the reporting dates so that I can complete my undergraduate studies. This way I will meet the expectations of the new position, which is one must have a bachelor’s degree. If the company agrees to grant me more time, I will have sufficient time to research more about the company and find out whether it will be a good fit for me. Secondly, I can consult with the new company and find out whether the employer is willing to cover my tuition fees as I look forward to advancing my education. Therefore, the management of the company and I will have to reach an agreement about the matter before the employee joins the company. The third option would be that I present the matter of salary increment to the current employer. The company may opt to increase my salary considering the fact that I have worked with the company for 11 years, I have a good reputation and have advanced my education.
Step Four: Evaluate options
By delaying the reporting dates, I will have sufficient time to acquire my bachelor’s degree certification and also conduct extensive research about the new company. Therefore, if I decide to join the new company then I will have all the educational requirements to occupy the supervisor position and be eligible to the benefits that come with being a supervisor in the company. Secondly, I will use this time to budget my finances and identify how staying in my current position or moving into the new company will impact my financial status. If the new company does not agree with the proposal to cover my tuition, then I will have to consider paying for my own education. I should also consider the fact that stability is not guaranteed in the new position. On the other hand, if the current company agrees to raise my salary, then I should consider staying, and continue advancing my education.
Step Five: Make your decision
The best option will be made once I have considered all the options. This will assist me in deciding whether I should stay in my current position or move to the new company. In this scenario the best decision would be staying in the current job position and negotiating with the management for a salary increment.
Step Six: Implement and reflect
This final step of the problem-solving process is to implement the decision. According to Sproull (4) by making a decision it does not mean that one has solved the problem, however, putting the decision into action is the actual act of solving the problem. In this case by choosing to remain in current position at the company I will be making a strategic decision to ensure that I have financial support to complete my bachelor’s degree and also proceed to do my masters.
Conclusion
The six-step problem solving approach is a guide that helps an individual to achieve their desired goals. The problem-solving process becomes effective when an individual is able to identify sustainable solutions to address the issues that one is currently facing. Therefore, practical problem solving skills are essential since they enable a person to identify the issues in a situation and implement the appropriate solutions.
Sources
Robert T. Barrett and Samuel H. Tolbert. 2014. Problem Solving in the Workplace through Application of Business Knowledge and Quantitative Methods. Journal of Business and Economics. 2014, Volume 5, No. 7, pp. 937-944 DOI: 10.15341/jbe(2155-7950)/07.05.2014/001
Hoover J. Duane, Giambatista Robert C., Sorenson Ritch L. and Bommer William H. 2010. “Assessing the effectiveness of whole person learning pedagogy in skill acquisition”, Academy of Management Learning & Education , Vol. 9, No. 2, pp. 192-203. http://connection.ebscohost.com/c/articles/51428543/assessing-effectiveness-whole-person-learning-pedagogy-skill-acquisition
Harold Kerzner. 2015. Project Management: Problem Solving and Decision Making. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119020042.ch10
Bob Sproull. 2018. The Problem-Solving, Problem-Prevention, and Decision-Making Guide. Productivity Press. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781351116268
