The problem-solving process involves thoughts, discussions, actions, and decisions
that occur from the first consideration of a problematic situation to the goal.
The problems that groups face are varied, but some common problems include
budgeting funds, raising funds, planning events, addressing customer or citizen
complaints, creating or adapting products or services to fit needs, supporting
members, and raising awareness about issues or causes. One problem I have
faced in the workplace for example would be gossiping. You won’t be able to
stop gossip entirely, and it’s unrealistic to think you will. What you can do is
try to minimize it. Put policies in place that ban spreading hurtful rumors about
other people. Even though you may run a restaurant or a department store
without the typical office setting, “office politics” can still arise due to gossip.
When it comes to making decisions and problem solving it is not always going
to be peachy, you could have that are on-bored with you and what you want
to get done. And you could also have some that are more sensitive to what
you want to be done and just not agree to it, then you have to start all over
again from step one until you figure out the right move that everyone agrees
on. Now when you are working alone you look at what is the best move and
how to approach it head on. You brain storm first then come up with you
game plan. Making decision in a group may give an opportunity to explore
with new and unique initiative and idea which streamline the company’s revenue.
After defining the problem, it is most important to analyze the resources,
information and data aiming to know the exact reason for the organizational
problem. It should be given extra priority as most of the cases the problem is
hidden behind the evaluations of the organizations’ resources and data (Dumitru,
2015). For example, some questions must be asked such as what are the main
problems of the organization? What are the required elements to combat with
the present organizational problems? Which information do we need now? These
are the questions that should be addressed at the right approach and positive
manner to consider while making decision and solving problems in a group.
There are numerous methods through which one can address the issue and
solution to the rest of the employees of the organization. One needs to be
assigned the responsibility to address the solution to the specific problem.
Therefore, it is very crucial to be a leading figure among the employees with
a purpose of addressing the issue in front of them. In addition, other employees
should be given chance to speak about the issue and give a desired solution
to the problem. Attending to a group meeting with starting brainstorming and
encouraging speech would be the best way to apply the learned lessons in the
organization . For example: arranging a meeting where all the key members
would be present aiming to sustain the relationship as well as to highlight the
individuals’ knowledge to solve the problem. There are several things to be
considered when making decisions and solving problems when working in a
group. It’s definitely challenging when trying to solve problem when working as
a group. The first thing is to identity the problem and how complicated it is
to solve. The most importance is to work as a group and identify the problem
and solve the problem together. Effective communication is key to solving
problems. Talk to each other and figure out what went wrong to cause the
problems. It's also important to motivate each other and give positive feedback
to team members. It's discouraging when there are no positive feedback or
positive encouragement from leaders. Effective team leaders need to constantly
keep in touch with members and give them positive reinforcement. When making
decisions with a team, the aspects of all members must be taken into
consideration. This consists of factors such as the main issue, information, size
of group, time and participation. If I were to apply what I have learned in
this class I would begin to think about modern teams. Within teams today, it
is important to realize what the common goals are in the organization. I would
find the core issue to decide how I would approach this decision. Everyone has
a role on a team and diverse opinions. I would determine the level of
leadership compared to other members' competence. I would be sure to consult
others by sharing my ideas and being open to theirs. With more ideas, there
are multiple alternatives to choose from. To avoid conflict, I would employ
effective communication skills and group regulation. With adequate research and
critical thinking, I would prevent the group from negative dynamics or behaviors
such as group-think. By focusing on common goals yet open to other ideas or
criticisms, the alternatives can be narrowed down to the best decision. Finally,
I would ensure the right decision is carried by the team with motivation to
impact the organization positively while maintaining effective criteria for this
solution. I have experienced making decisions and solving problems on my own
for personal, professional, and academic and I must agree I find it quite
different then making decisions or solving problems with a Team. I had to
learn that somethings may take a team effort and can be done more sufficient
with the help of others. When making decisions and solving problems within a
group it is important to make sure your taking accountability of your own
actions and holding your other group members accountable for their actions. I
believe it is important when making a important decision within a team that
you make sure your communicating, keep a open mind, and respecting all of
the members suggestions and ideas. I have learned many different team strategies
in team building, the elements that define team dynamics, and so much more
throughout this course. When a problem is presented in a group setting moving
forward , I now know to remain positive, keep communicating within the group,
and take accountability for my role in the current problem. I feel like the main
thing to consider for making decisions and solving them would probably be for
you and the rest of your team to have the ability to listen to one another’s
opinion or ideas. It can be very tricky because there will be a lot of people
giving their own voice and some might feel as if their opinions are better than
the rest. It’s difficult because we all have strong feelings when it comes to
certain topics but that doesn’t necessarily mean we don’t have to listen to
anyone else’s opinion or judge them for how they feel. In order to make the
team function when it comes to solving a problem is for all of them to be
on the same page. Also it would be best for everyone to take a few minutes
to process the situation and brainstorm an idea that could help out in any way.
Also another issue could be is that some situations can be personal and some
people might jump into action without taking the time to process it or listen
to anyone else who is trying to help. As a single mom I had to make a lot
of decisions and figure things out on my own. After a while you get used to
it. When I had to work as part of a group/team at work it was a lot more
challenging. I had to share my ideas with the group and they would either
challenge the idea or not acknowledge my idea at all. If my idea is excepted
there is a certain level of anxiety that it is a good idea and that my idea
will be successful. In a group there are a lot of voices. How I will apply
what I have learned in class will the healthy conflicts, I will respect other
peoples ideas, I will listen, I will develop a certain level of trust. I believe
that one very important thing to do in a group is to define the roles that
each team member will play and then each member has to respect that role
and as they say stay in your own lane. This will avoid a lot of conflicts and
confusion. Decision making and problem solving in a group environment is
different that performing this task as an individual. When working in a group
or team, it is important to understand the role that each member plays as well
as taking into consideration the working relationship amongst the members of
the team or group. Another consideration would be the stage that the team/group
is in. It is important to understand the role that each team/group member plays,
since each member typically plays a specific function. Depending on the decision
that needs to be made certain team/group members may have more of an
impact on the subject at hand. The working relationships amongst team/group
members is important to understand in order to maintain those relationships. I
will apply what I learned during this course by understanding the roles that
different team/group members play. This is especially important for me as I just
recently started a job at a new company after being with my previous
organization for eight years. I was in a management role previously and I am
now in a sales position. Previously I had a say in a lot of the decision
making that happened within my team, now I do not. I am adjusting to the
new organization and my new role, it is especially important for me to
understand the roles different people on the team play. I might not have
considered the importance of this as much if I hadn't attended this course.
Making decisions and solving problems as a team when there are multiple
people, personalities and opinions involved is quite a bit of a challenge verses
an individual working independently. It is important that all voices are heard,
all ideas are considered, all opinions are expressed when making any decisions
as a team, as the final decision will effect the team as a whole. Including all
team members opinions and allowing everyone to openly share their ideas and
how to's is very important in solving problems within a team as well. When
all opinions or ideas are considered equally, a sense of satisfaction will be
brought to the team. Team satisfaction will help create commitment and avoid
a team "burn-out".I believe that the best form of conflict resolution is
collaboration and will apply this as needed in my professional life. I have
learned that if I come to a conflict within our team, it is important to be
assertive to the satisfaction of both parties, being open to both sides of the
conflict and not to avoid the problem. When creating a team, make sure
management is organized, the goal is clear and each individual chosen for the
team is compatible with each other in a team setting. Next, nominate a role
for each team member; it is important that each role is clear on what their
responsibilities are. Conflict is highly likely to arise at some point; do not avoid
the conflict, accommodate or compromise one party over the other but rather
use collaboration to ensure both parties are as satisfied with the outcome as
possible and ensure that the outcome benefits the team as a whole. Monitor
healthy team dynamics in order to maintain the effectiveness of the team. I
believe things that can be considered when making decisions and solving
problems in a group or a team would be identifying the problem and being an
effective listener and having a good communication skill. Also look into different
kinds of alternative solutions. It’s important to be open minded and considerate
of other opinions. I will apply what I learned in class when presented by a
problem or decision in a team setting by learning both of my strength and
weakness when it comes to working in a group or a team. This will also help
very much in everything I do but especially at work. I know sometimes we
lack communication so it can be harder to work in situations like that. I will
try my hardest to voice my thoughts and express myself. I also want to be
more open to what others may say. I did find interesting learning about the
team dynamics. After following the steps of having a good team. It’s helpful
to learn about different alternatives in having a successful team. There are
several things to consider when making decisions and solving problems in a
group or team. Being able to identify the problem and its level of difficulty
would be the first step followed by effective communication and trust. Knowing
what the issue is and its level of difficulty will make it easier to come
together as a group to find an amicable solution. This is where effective
communication plays a crucial role. Clear communication ensures that everyone
is on the same page with no room for misinformation. This also allows the
group or team to share their ideas in efforts to brainstorm for a solution. Trust
comes in when a good leader places trust on their team and follows through
with their suggestions and/or recommendations.Being that I have worked in the
corporate world setting for several years, I have been a part of teams with
different dynamics. This course has helped strengthen my knowledge and helped
me better understand how important team dynamics and a great leader are for
a team to be successful. I plan to continue to put my best effort towards my
contributions to whatever team I am a part of. Things you would need to
consider when making decisions and solving problems in a team would be to
identify the problem consider how difficult the problem is, the number of
possible solutions, what the group member interest in problem is, whether or
not the team members are familiar with the problem, and the need for everyone
in the team to come to an agreement on the solution. I could utilize much
from what I have learned in this course to both identify a problem and come
together as a team to be more cohesive. I could also take what I learned from
this course and create a more effective team or group because I understand that
a team goes through different stages such as forming, storming, norming, and
performing. By understanding the different types of leadership, being democratic
leadership, autocratic leadership, laissez-faire leadership, strategic leadership,
transformational leadership, and transactional leadership and using the best one,
which in my opinion is autocratic leadership. Also, by understanding now what
a team is compared to a group could help me form better defined roles in a
team. When making decisions and solving problems as a group or team, I
would I would consider maturity, good communication skills, and great
leadership. Maturity in the work place is very important because at times team
members bring in unnecessary drama that only brings unnecessary meetings that
is common sense to many but not all. Although work cohesiveness is
undoubtedly important, there are limits to friendships and work related
relationships. Good communications are needed in life in general, especially in
the work place. We need to be able to express ourselves accordingly with the
correct body language, usage of words and expressing our concerns at the right
time and place. Great leadership is especially important for solving problems in
a group setting because I strongly feel that in order to flow accordingly and
successfully as a team, the group needs a great leader to take over and control
the madness from time to time. By this, I mean someone that is responsible,
confident, and most importantly approachable to those with any problem or
concern both big or small. Taking things back to third week's learning, I was
mostly always against group norms because I felt as if it was unfair to those
who wanted to do things their own way and made the new employees feel
uncomfortable and isolated. After last wee's assignment I came to understand that
group norms links to cohesiveness and the positive atmosphere of the work
place. I would consider being dependable, understanding, focused, excellent
communication skills, approachable, open minded, and to be able to use critical
thinking. This person needs all these plus more to be able to make fast
decisions at a moment notice to be able to use critical thinking to solve a
problem or dispute. They are the main point of contact when something goes
wrong or right. Leadership or team leader are the glue that holds a group
together. Without this an organization will not go anywhere. I am applying all
that I do know and read these past few weeks at work and with my
coworkers. By displaying certain roles in the workforce and seen the different
roles is fun to watch workers form into the roles of the Forming, Storming,
Norming and Performing at work. Cohesion at work has differently been a
major role in what we do everyday for our clients, I like seeing this action
in full force. A small group of people at work always agree to do certain
activities enough through they are not wanting to participate with the group they
do it anyways. This is a problem at work at time and we have a peer at
work who is a liaison that report concerns to upper management. The employees
write or talk with the liaison about the topics that cause them hardship and
we can discuss it either one on one or in group if more people have the
same problem. This seems to work so far. When making decisions and solving
problems in a group or team you must first be an active listener, be logical,
and be a good communicator. In order to be a good problem solver you must
know what the problem is, know how everyone feels about the problem evaluate
the options, be open minded and some times you have to be creative to solve
a problem or make a decision. I use what I learn in this class everyday in
both my home work life. I am part of a team at work as a member of my
family. I have learned how to be a good and positive leader. I have learned
how to be an active team member. This class has help to learn to use my
team members strengths and weaknesses to help better our team. I have learned
in order for someone to follow my lead I must first be a leader that deserves
to be followed, lead by example. Most important I need to listen and be a
good communicator. I know now that a person can have more than one role
in the team or group. When making decisions and solving problems in a group
setting it is important to consider multiple factors in order to achieve positive
and efficient outcomes. For instance, consideration of what stage a group's
development is at before making decisions or solving problems is important. If
a group's development is not far along and is in the forming or storming stage
large and major decisions should be made carefully. These early stages are
sometimes rife with conflict and such decisions can lead to increased issues and
tension that is hard to overcome. Other factors such as how leadership styles
will be applied will affect overall group cohesion. Styles such as democratic,
autocratic, strategic, etc, all carry there own elements that will shape how a
team will respond to demands and decisions being made. As I am currently in
a leadership role I will use the lessons in this course as a reminder to
critically assess the characteristics of my group / team. It will be important to
do this along with my analysis of current tasks and goals if I wish to continue
being an effective leader in the future. There are several things to consider
when making decisions in a group setting, such as time, member skill,
independence and self-direction, availability to required information, group size. In
solving problems in a group setting, there are advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages: More choices to resources, creative ideas, and perceptions, which
helps strengthen the final decision. Involvement gives a more broad context and
the importance of executing the decision. It also gives enhancing empowerment,
which results in improved productivity and efficiency.
Disadvantages: Groupthink is where members yield to the will of the group.
Self Censorship is where some members ignore practical examinations of
alternatives in order not to cause arguments. I now have a better understanding
of some of the techniques I had already used in past situations. I will be
better prepared to use alternative ways of looking at a team/group in decision
making. To have a successful team/group there has to be open communication
between all members of the team, which will help build the team dynamics in
trust. Being able to be a strong leader will help in managing conflict by
developing specific roles within the team. There are a variety of ways to make
decisions as a group. Identify the decision to be made: before beginning to
gather information and list alternatives it's important as a group to understand
clearly what you are trying to decide so you have a goal to focus your
discussion. Analyze the issue under discussion: Once the decision is made
examine the data and resources that you already have and identify what
additional information you may need. Establish criteria: Identify the criteria or
conditions that would determine whether a chosen solution is successful. Ideally
a solution will be feasible move the group froward and meet the needs of
every group member.Brainstorm potential solutions: Using the resources and
information collected above brainstorm for potential solutions for the problem or
decision identified in the first step. This involves collecting as many ideas as
possible. Evaluate options and select the best one: Once you have a list of
potential solutions now you ready to evaluate them for the best alternative
according to the criteria identified in step 3. Implement the solution: This
involves identifying the resources necessary to implement the decision as well as
the potential obstacles then take action. Monitor and evaluate the outcome:
Based on the criteria identified in step 3 evaluate whether the decision was
successful.
In the future if I'm ever presented with a problem or decision in a team
setting I would listen to the problem, asking the entire group whats their
thoughts on the problem, gather any information that may help with solving this
problem, evaluate all the information that I have and make a reasonable decision
based on what information I have gathered. Some things we need to consider
when making decisions and solving problems within a group or team could be
how we communicate with one another, our body language, how well the team
gets along, and many more. Working in a group/team is very different than
working on your own. When working in a team we need to consider others
ideas with an open mind even if we don't agree doesn't mean their ideas are
wrong. We should follow the guidelines that the leader has set to make sure
things stay on track and are finished timely. Voicing our opinion in a way that
isn't hurtful to others but also letting them know what our ideas are and how
they could benefit the team or group. When solving problems among the group
we should make sure the right form of communication is being used so the
tension won't rise and the issue will be resolved without further issues that
could potentially impact the group. We should all hold one another accountable
for the work that needs to be completed but also offer encouragement if you
see a team member struggle, sometimes an uplifting word helps motive another
member.
Applying what I have learned over the last five weeks in my professional life
will greatly impact my team at work, I think we have a lot of communication
issues at the moment and maybe if I speak up and throw out some new ideas
on how to better improve the situation we are having we will have more better
days within our team. When making decisions and solving problems in a group
or team you need to consider everyone ideas, allow everyone the opportunity to
get involved and voice their opinions and concerns. You must understand that
teamwork revolves around everyone's participation and making decisions together
helps build the team. Tread lightly on members ego, be genuine in wanting to
make decisions as a team, avoid negative gestures, body language says a lot,
speak clearly, compromise, listen to other members of the team, and treat
everyone with respect. When someone offers a good suggestion praise that
person, give encouragement and support to one another. When presented with a
problem or decision in a team setting I would allow myself to listen to the
problem and think of ways I'm able to resolve the problem without causing a
bigger problem. I can ask other members of the team their thoughts and
feelings and whether they have any ideas to offer. I will examine the big
picture, allowing myself to identify who would be affected and how so that I'm
able to communicate everything with everyone and we are all on the same
page. When solving a problem within a group you need to worry about
everybody in that group, their beliefs, options, and concerns. You need to realize
it is not only your voice that matters, that everybody in the group has the
right to speak up and voice what they are thinking and the other group
members need to be respectful and listen to them. When working in groups I
will use what I learned in this class by communicating with others, if there is
an issue I will make sure I communicate that right away. I will make sure
we have a strong leadership, if not I will make sure I am a strong leader.
Conflict resolution needs to be clear, this falls within communication if the team
is communicating well then when conflicts arise they should be dealt with
professionally. I will stress with team dynamics that we all need to be able to
trust one another and if we cannot do that it will drag down the team as a
whole. There are multiple factors to be considered when it comes to making
decisions and problem solving in a group or team. First the team/group members
have to be able to work together by displaying great communication and
understanding among each other. Also everyone in the team/group has to be
able to voice their opinions and ideas to the rest of the team/group members.
Not only is listening important but considering everyone's input and apply it to
the task at hand is also as important in order to have good self esteem in
the team/group's chemistry. Determining who will take the responsibility of being
the leader of the team/group is as essential in order to ensure a great
cohesiveness in a group. Being a great leader comes with understanding that
there will be highs and lows in a team/groups foundation but the way the
leader can resolve and motivate members will determine how effective things
can be accomplished. This class has given me a greater understanding of what
a team needs to be successful and how groups can intertwine together to make
work for efficient. I will know how to become a better leader and guide people
in a great path to succeed together. Being aware of everyone's abilities and
qualities that they bring to a team/group is important to provide an outstanding
and effective task. Some of the things that you should consider when making
decisions and solving problems within a group are common grounds, manage the
emotions within the group, appropriate assertiveness, create an alternative solution,
make sure the issue is clear, active listening, achieve a trade off, and consider
what everyone in the group thinks should be done about the issue. I can apply
what I have learned in this class when presented with a problem or decision
in a team setting by listening to what everyone thinks should be done about
the issue. I can also make sure that everyone agrees with the decision being
made about what to do about the issue rather than just doing what one person
thinks should be done about the issue. The first week we learned about working
in teams and how to handle working with others in a team. The second week
we learned about group development strategies and what all could happen while
forming a group or team. The third week was about leadership and conflict
management. I learned that out conflicts should always be made clear to our
leaders. Last week we learned about team dynamics and what helped to make
a team. During this class I have learned that throughout my years in school
and work I have not really had any true leadership within the groups or teams
that I have been in. I think the biggest concerns would be not only the
difficulty of the situation or problem, but also the actual group members
understanding, interest, knowledge, or capabilities. There may also be some
members who work on there part better alone, where others work better as a
group. This could possibly effect other parts- if you have someone who is more
introverted and the rest of the team are extroverts, the difference could stress
the introvert out and possibly make their work not as great as it normally
would be. Also, letting people know that some of the decisions made are not
personal, rather just an agreed solution to better fit the problem. What one
person believes is the best situation, others may feel it needs a different
approach. Because I do have a lot of "team" based groups in my employer, I
think this class has helped me to think outside of my "norm". Being able to
asses the group situation and get to know people and how they work in a
group setting will help me make sure the group can work together smoothly
and effectively. Assessing how people work and what their strengths and
weakness will also let me know what to assign them. five common and
important characteristics to consider are task difficulty, number of possible
solutions, group members. Interest in problem, group member, familiarity with
problem and the need to solution acceptance. The problem-solving process
involves through discussion, actions and decisions that occur from the
consideration of problematic situation to the group. The problem that groups face
are varied, but some common problems include budgeting funds, raising fund,
planning events, addressing customer or citizen complaints, creating or adapting
produces or services to fit needs, supporting members, and raising awareness
about issues or cause.I have learned a lot in this class when it comes to
solving a problem or making a decision in a team setting, the first week what
are some typical situations that may occur in phase of group development. The
forming process is when most team members are positive and polite. Week 3
conflict in a group when we or encounter with a conflict in a group how will
you handle the conflict you should be able to talk with that team member to
see can the conflict be solved without the leader stepping in but sometimes
most conflicts or solve when the leader step in a hear both sides and come
up with a solution to solve the conflict.
