PROBLEM SOLVING & DECISION-MAKING SKILLS FOR ENGINEERS AND TECHNICAL PROFESSIONALS

Objective:

• Understand the importance of applying structured methods for effective problem solving and decision making
• Involve the right stakeholders at every stage of the analysis and decision-making process
• Solve problems more efficiently while preventing recurring issues
• Make well-informed decisions and recommendations based on systematic analysis
• Communicate findings, solutions, and recommendations with greater clarity and stakeholder acceptance
• Apply practical problem-solving and decision-making techniques immediately in the workplace

Content:

Introduction to Problem Solving and Decision Making

• Introduction to the training programme
• Fundamentals of problem solving and decision making
• Generic approaches to problem solving and continuous improvement
• Overview of structured problem-solving methods
• Introduction to the RATIO approach
• Case studies and practical demonstrations

Reflecting on the Problem

• Understanding the Reflect stage of the RATIO methodology
• Identifying root causes through case studies
• Event mapping principles and techniques
• Practical event mapping exercises
• Applying event mapping in everyday work situations

Analysing Technical Problems

• Understanding the Analyse stage of the RATIO methodology
• Defining problems using the IS / IS-NOT technique
• Identifying possible causes through brainstorming, change analysis, and Ishikawa (Fishbone) diagrams
• Determining the true root cause of technical problems
• Hands-on problem analysis exercises
• Updating event maps with problem analysis outcomes

Analysing Human and Organizational Problems

• Human factor analysis concepts and techniques
• Practical exercises in human factor analysis
• Applying the Target stage of the RATIO methodology
• Decision analysis for selecting the best solutions
• Decision analysis exercises
• Integrating human factor and decision analysis into event maps

Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation

• Applying the Implement stage of the RATIO methodology
• Risk analysis principles and practical exercises
• Advanced human factor analysis techniques
• Applying the Observe and Evaluate stage of the RATIO methodology
• Implementing problem-solving and decision-making methods in daily operations
• Course evaluation, action planning, and programme closure

Who Should Attend?

• Engineers, maintenance professionals, and technical specialists
• Production, manufacturing, and operations personnel
• Technology professionals responsible for problem solving and decision making
• Supervisors, team leaders, and managers in engineering and technical environments
• Professionals seeking to strengthen analytical thinking and structured decision-making skills
• Anyone interested in implementing proven problem-solving methodologies to improve organizational performance