Solving Managerial Problems Systematically

<p>In their new book <i>Solving Managerial Problems Systematically</i>, 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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p> <p>1 A Framework for The Best Solution </p><p>1.1 Characteristics of the Managerial Problem-Solving Method </p><p>1.2 Systematic or Creative Approach? </p><p>1.3 Phases of the Managerial Problem-Solving Method </p><p>1.4 MPSM Works Anywhere, Anytime </p><p>1.5 Tailored to Your Problem </p><p>1.6 The Language of Variables </p><p>1.7 Framework </p><p>1.8 Researching and Designing in One </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>2 Untroubled Problems </p><p>2.1 Types of Problems </p><p>2.2 Problem as an Analytical Concept </p><p>2.3 Action Problems </p><p>2.4 Knowledge Problems </p><p>2.5 Linking Action and Knowledge Problems </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>3 A Trouble-Shooter’s Log </p><p>3.1 The MPSM in Practice </p><p>4 In Search of the Core Problem </p><p>4.1 Reaching the Core Problem, Step by Step </p><p>4.2 Lining Up the Problems </p><p>4.3 Cause and Effect </p><p>4.4 Choosing the Core Problem </p><p>4.5 Making Problems Quantifiable </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>5 D3: Do, Discover, Decide </p><p>5.1 Three Principles of a Plan of Attack </p><p>5.2 D3 Explained </p><p>5.3 Benefits of a Systematic Approach </p><p>5.4 Walking A Thin Line </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>6 In Search of the Unknown </p><p>6.1 Looking Closely at the Problem </p><p>6.2 Locating the Problem </p><p>6.3 Researching Causes </p><p>6.4 Considering Earlier Solutions </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>7 An Overview of Options </p><p>7.1 Seven Steps to a Possible Solution </p><p>7.2 Defining the Decision </p><p>7.3 Defining the Decision-Making Process </p><p>7.4 Establishing Criteria </p><p>7.5 Scaling Criteria </p><p>7.6 Weighting Criteria </p><p>7.7 Providing Alternative Options or Using Existing Possibilities </p><p>7.8 Evaluating the Attractiveness of Available Options </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts</p><p>8 The Client’s Move </p><p>8.1 Three Reasons for Deviating from an Advisory Report </p><p>8.2 Politically Charged Decisions </p><p>8.3 Considering Other Interests </p><p>8.4 Handling Risks </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>9 A Systematic Approach </p><p>9.1 Two Principles of Implementing a Solution</p><p>9.2 A Brief Description </p><p>9.3 Realising an Idea </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>10 Keep Improving </p><p>10.1 Three Principles of a Structured Evaluation </p><p>10.2 Evaluation as a Balancing Item </p><p>10.3 MPSM: Guiding Along the Path of Evaluation </p><p>10.4 Evaluating Systematically </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>11 In Search of Knowledge </p><p>11.1 Gathering Knowledge Using the Research Cycle </p><p>11.2 Formulating the Research Goal </p><p>11.3 Formulating the Problem Statement </p><p>11.4 Formulating the Research Questions </p><p>11.5 Formulating the Research Design </p><p>11.6 Performing the Operationalisation </p><p>11.7 Performing the Measurements </p><p>11.8 Processing the Data </p><p>11.9 Drawing Conclusions (Reviewing the Problem Statement) </p><p>Summary </p><p>Core Concepts </p><p>Sources </p><p>Illustration Acknowledgements</p><p>Index </p><p>About the Authors </p>