Process - Problem Solving & Decision Making

CIMBA Mind Based Performance (MBP) uses the CIMBA - Kepner-Tregoe learning alliance to impress upon students the efficient use of rational, managerial thought processes. The processes emphasize the importance of gathering, organizing, analyzing and logically acting upon information in decision making and problem solving. MBP is built upon patterns of thinking, response and behavior developed around accumulating answers to four basic questions:

What is going on?
Situation Appraisal: A process for managing complex issues by separating them into workable pieces, setting priorities and planning.

Why did this happen?
Problem Analysis: A step-by-step process for identifying, analyzing and resolving any problem – efficiently and cost-effectively.

Which course of action should we take?
Decision Analysis: A process to make the best decision when the choice between different alternatives is unclear.

What lies ahead?
Potential Problem (Opportunity) Analysis: A process to minimize risks, implement effective actions to reduce the damages and maximize potential opportunities.

In an organizational setting, rational processes can make full use of the thinking ability within a unit. Importantly, the Kepner-Tregoe processes are applicable, regardless of cultural setting or content.

Process in Classes 

The study of the Process component begins with instruction in Kepner-Tregoe methodology. Students then practice the methodology through the Da Vinci Challenge. Part of the overall MBP model, the Da Vinci Challenge creates a managerial, thinking environment that closely replicates the working environment. Through a physically rigorous ropes course, students work in teams to solve physical and mental challenges that help develop teamwork skills.

The classroom work that follows builds on this experience by enhancing the decision-making and problem-solving technologies developed, making them explicit and transportable. Upon completing the Da Vinci Challenge, students will have been introduced to the four basic thinking patterns. Formal and more in-depth training follows, whereby students learn the concepts, practice on cases, and ultimately apply the concepts to their own concerns.

Examples of MBP incorporation into classes:

• Managerial Accounting: Situation Appraisal is used to gather, sort, and organize information in a case. Evaluation (Decision Analysis) of different methods is used to understand objectives.
• Operations Management: Situation Appraisal is applied to resolve issues related to the operation of an airline.
• Information Systems: Decision Analysis is used to select the best information system and parameters for implementation at CISCO Systems (HBS Case: CISCO Implements ERP).
• Legal Environment of Business: Potential Problem Analysis is applied to a U.S. company preparing to launch a new product in the North American market; students must consider several potential liability issues.
• Strategic Management: Situation Appraisal is used to assess the external and internal environment as inputs into data gathering and analysis. Decision Analysis is used to decide on products, markets and capabilities required to formulate strategy.