Problem Solving and Decision Making

Course Overview

In an increasingly complex and fast-moving business world, the ability to think critically and make sound decisions is a crucial leadership and professional competency. This course equips participants with practical frameworks, analytical tools, and creative techniques to solve problems efficiently and make decisions confidently. Through interactive activities and real-world examples, participants will learn to balance logic with intuition, data with judgement, and urgency with clarity.

Course Objectives

Course Outline

  • Define critical thinking and its importance in the workplace
  • Explore traits of strong critical thinkers and their decision patterns
  • Identify barriers to effective thinking – cognitive biases, groupthink, emotional reactivity
  • Learn how to distinguish root causes from surface-level symptoms
  • Use tools such as the 5 Whys and Fishbone Diagram for structured analysis
  • Break down complex problems into manageable components
  • Explore divergent thinking tools like brainstorming and lateral thinking
  • Practise creativity under pressure – from constraints to insights
  • Evaluate options using risk assessments and feasibility criteria
  • Design contingency plans for potential obstacles
  • Compare intuitive vs. rational approaches to decision-making
  • Navigate group dynamics and build consensus in team decisions
  • Use structured frameworks: Decision Matrix, SWOT Analysis, and Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Translate choices into step-by-step implementation plans
  • Assign goals, responsibilities, and timelines to ensure follow-through
  • Monitor progress using success metrics and feedback loops
  • Adjust strategies when new information or challenges arise
  • Use reflection to evaluate decision quality and learning opportunities
  • Conduct after-action reviews to extract insights from outcomes
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and openness to change
  • Execute plans with discipline and cross-functional alignment
  • Track progress and make real-time adjustments
  • Coordinate multiple change projects with shared priorities
  • Integrate change into core business processes and systems
  • Measure outcomes and embed lessons learned
  • Maintain momentum with leadership alignment and long-term reinforcement

Delivery Method

Think smarter, decide faster: master critical thinking for confident leadership.

Enhance leadership skills with critical thinking, problem-solving frameworks, and decision-making tools for faster, smarter choices in today’s complex business environment.

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