Problem Solving Certificate Program
Instructor: Ronelle Neperud
Before solving problems, it is a leader's responsibility to understand the dynamics and basis of problems and how individuals and organizations react to problems they face. Problems usually come up because because of change, things are not like they used to be, or something needs to be improved. Each one of us reacts to change in different ways and for different reasons. Early in the Problem Solving Certificate Program, the participants identify changes that are impacting them from a global, regional and local perspective, setting the stage for understanding their role as change agents.
Leaders are frequently faced with the 'elephant' in the room when facilitating groups, but in the Problem Solving session they are introduced to a analogy of an elephant with a monkey on the its back that serves as the 'driver'. Through this analogy they gain an understanding of how we as human beings respond to change. Going beyond the analogy, the participants gain new understandings of how to work with the elephant and the monkey and move into an environment of acceptance and working through change.
Buy-in is one of the most important aspects to long-term problem solving strategies. The participants learn that this buy in must occur early in the problem solving process. In order to build upon their knowledge and skill base for engaging people in problem solving, participants explore the various methods for obtaining input, evaluating and recruiting others in the process. In addition, the participants spend time learning about effective team development and receive tools that help them identify and select appropriate stakeholders for a change/problem solving effort.
A model for problem solving is introduced that can be applied to their problem solving team's work. The D-E-A-L model, Defines (the team, and the impact); Explores the options and solutions; Acts on the chosen solution after producing a detailed plan; and Learns and evaluates the results as they relate to the desired impact. Through story and videos real life Kansas City scenarios are presented that demonstrate successful stakeholders' partnerships that have led to short and long-term outcomes.
Instructors: Ronelle Neperud
