1. Managers as Problem Solvers
BOH4M

2. Methods of Dealing with Problems
Problem Avoiders
Managers ignore data that indicate a problem may occur
Inactive
Problem Solvers
Managers who resolve problems when they occur
Reactive
Problem Seekers
Managers who actively search for problems
See problems as opportunities
Proactive

3. Types of Thinkers
Systematic
Intuitive

4. Systematic Thinkers tend to…
make a step-by-step plan for solving problems
be detail oriented
define the constraints of the problem early
discard alternatives only after careful analysis
complete any step they begin the next
conduct a thorough search for all information
work in businesses as accountants, engineers, etc.

5. Intuitive Thinkers tend to…
see the big picture
rely on hunches
consider a number of ideas simultaneously
jump around in their reasoning
explore and reject ideas quickly
tend to work in business as marketers, strategic planners, etc.

6. Which one is better?
Systematic thinkers are more thorough and make less mistakes
Intuitive thinkers are more creative and make quicker decisions
Businesses need both types of thinkers and people who can think in both ways
These types of thinkers are known as multidimensional thinkers

7. Types of Problems Routine Problems Non-routine Problems
Arise on a periodic basis and have standard response
Non-routine Problems
Unique situations
Expected Problems
Anticipated Situations
Unexpected Problems
Situations are not anticipated, dealt with after they happen
Crisis Problems
Can lead to disaster

8. Brainstorming Exercise
Your group has been hired as the consultants of the ACME Sports Equipment Corporation
The production manager has reported a major problem in the manufacturing facility
One of the hockey stick production machines was left unattended and has produced one million sticks that do not have a blade (the bottom part of the stick)
You have been asked to generate as many ideas as possible for consumer uses of these sticks
You have also been asked to present your three most creative yet realistic ideas to the Production Manager