Chapter 7 - Group Problem-Solving Procedures

Question 0

Problem Solving

Answer 0

Everything you need to do to move from your present undesirable situation to what you want, including creating solutions and choosing among them

Question 1

Problem

Answer 1

The difference between what exists presently and what you expect or want

Question 2

Decision Making

Answer 2

Choosing from available options

Question 3

Area of Freedom

Answer 3

The amount of authority and the limitations given to a group

Question 4

Characteristics of Problems:

Task Difficulty

Answer 4

Adaptation for high difficulty:

1. Plan to meet often.
2. Use detailed problem mapping.
3. Include many subquestions to the problem-solving procedure.
4. Form a detailed implementation plan, in writing

Question 5

Characteristics of Problems:

Solution Multiplicity

Answer 5

Adaptation for high multiplicity:

1. Use brainstorming or one of its variations to generate many ideas.
2. Use synectics or another creativity-enhancing technique to help members relax and be creative.
3. Leave plenty of time for generating ideas; don’t rush the process.

Question 6

Characteristics of Problems:

Intrinsic Interests

Answer 6

Adaptation for high interest:

1. Set aside a “ventilation” period early in the problem-solving process for members to express their feelings.
2. Leave plenty of time for early ventilation.
3. Don’t over control the ventilation process or introduce structured procedures too early.

Question 7

Characteristics of Problems:

Member Familiarity

Answer 7

Adaptation for high familiarity:
1. Focus on establishment of clear criteria.
2. Focus on evaluating the options using the criteria developed.
Adaptation to low familiarity:
1. Use detailed problem mapping.
2. Use consultants and outside experts for help.

Question 8

Characteristics of Problems:

Acceptance Level

Answer 8

Adaptation for high acceptance requirements:

1. Include representatives in your group from groups that must accept the decision.
2. Use techniques to spot potential problems before finally deciding on a solution.
3. Protest a solution by partially implementing it and agreeing to pull back if it doesn’t seem to work.

Question 9

Discussion Question

Answer 9

The discussion question is the central question of policy facing the group

Question 10

Functional Theory

Answer 10

A description of how communication affects group problem solving

Question 11

Procedural Model of Problem Solving (P-MOPS)

Answer 11

A flexible framework to guide each phase of the problem-solving process

1. Describing and analyzing the problem
2. Generating and explaining possible solutions
3. Evaluating all solutions
4. Choosing the best solution
5. Implementing the chosen solution

Question 12

Charge

Answer 12

The group’s assignment

Question 13

Focus Group

Answer 13

An unstructured technique in which members freely explore thoughts and feelings about a topic

Question 14

Criteria

Answer 14

Standards and guidelines used to evaluate ideas and solutions

Question 15

Group Support Systems (GSS)

Answer 15

Computer-based systems designed to improve various aspects of group work

Question 16

Consensus

Answer 16

A decision all members agree is the best they can all support but isn’t necessarily everyone’s first choice

Question 17

RISK Technique

Answer 17

A technique to help a group assess potential problem or risks with a potential solution

Question 18

PERT

Answer 18

Program evaluation and review technique that helps group members manage and keep track of a complex task