1st Edition
Solving Managerial Problems Systematically
In their new book Solving Managerial Problems Systematically, Hans Heerkens and Arnold van Winden teach students how to identify and efficiently deal with problems. The book uses the Managerial Problem-Solving Method, which deals with problems step by step.
Solving Managerial Problems Systematically describes the seven phases of the Managerial Problem-Solving Method, a roadmap on how to identify, conduct thorough research into, and lastly solve a core problem. This textbook treats the concept of a ‘problem’ as an analytical one; a concept that can be found in any department in any organisation. Creative techniques are used to help find a solution for the problems encountered, which makes the method an ideal tool that is applicable in nearly any situation.
Solving Managerial Problems Systematically is intended for Bachelor studies (professional education and university) where students engage in problems and problem-solving in individual courses, projects, or graduation. It is a valuable aid for consultants and advisors to help identify and analyse managerial problems, and to advise companies on possible solutions.
1 A Framework for The Best Solution
1.1 Characteristics of the Managerial Problem-Solving Method
1.2 Systematic or Creative Approach?
1.3 Phases of the Managerial Problem-Solving Method
1.4 MPSM Works Anywhere, Anytime
1.5 Tailored to Your Problem
1.6 The Language of Variables
1.7 Framework
1.8 Researching and Designing in One
Summary
Core Concepts
2 Untroubled Problems
2.1 Types of Problems
2.2 Problem as an Analytical Concept
2.3 Action Problems
2.4 Knowledge Problems
2.5 Linking Action and Knowledge Problems
Summary
Core Concepts
3 A Trouble-Shooter’s Log
3.1 The MPSM in Practice
4 In Search of the Core Problem
4.1 Reaching the Core Problem, Step by Step
4.2 Lining Up the Problems
4.3 Cause and Effect
4.4 Choosing the Core Problem
4.5 Making Problems Quantifiable
Summary
Core Concepts
5 D3: Do, Discover, Decide
5.1 Three Principles of a Plan of Attack
5.2 D3 Explained
5.3 Benefits of a Systematic Approach
5.4 Walking A Thin Line
Summary
Core Concepts
6 In Search of the Unknown
6.1 Looking Closely at the Problem
6.2 Locating the Problem
6.3 Researching Causes
6.4 Considering Earlier Solutions
Summary
Core Concepts
7 An Overview of Options
7.1 Seven Steps to a Possible Solution
7.2 Defining the Decision
7.3 Defining the Decision-Making Process
7.4 Establishing Criteria
7.5 Scaling Criteria
7.6 Weighting Criteria
7.7 Providing Alternative Options or Using Existing Possibilities
7.8 Evaluating the Attractiveness of Available Options
Summary
Core Concepts
8 The Client’s Move
8.1 Three Reasons for Deviating from an Advisory Report
8.2 Politically Charged Decisions
8.3 Considering Other Interests
8.4 Handling Risks
Summary
Core Concepts
9 A Systematic Approach
9.1 Two Principles of Implementing a Solution
9.2 A Brief Description
9.3 Realising an Idea
Summary
Core Concepts
10 Keep Improving
10.1 Three Principles of a Structured Evaluation
10.2 Evaluation as a Balancing Item
10.3 MPSM: Guiding Along the Path of Evaluation
10.4 Evaluating Systematically
Summary
Core Concepts
11 In Search of Knowledge
11.1 Gathering Knowledge Using the Research Cycle
11.2 Formulating the Research Goal
11.3 Formulating the Problem Statement
11.4 Formulating the Research Questions
11.5 Formulating the Research Design
11.6 Performing the Operationalisation
11.7 Performing the Measurements
11.8 Processing the Data
11.9 Drawing Conclusions (Reviewing the Problem Statement)
Summary
Core Concepts
Sources
Illustration Acknowledgements
Index
About the Authors
Biography
Hans Heerkens is assistant professor at the University of Twente, and associate professor of Methodology at the Business School Netherlands in Buren.
Arnold van Winden teaches Communication Management at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, and is the owner of Van Winden Communicatie.
