2+Problem+Solving

=**Problem Solving **=

//**Where there ar** ////**e problems - Decisions must be made!** //

**Task One**
Understand why businesses must make decisions.

**//Read the Notes on Problem-solving//** A **problem** can be defined as...
 * "A problem is an obstacle, impediment, difficulty or challenge, or any situation that invites resolution; the resolution of which is recognized as a solution or contribution toward a known purpose or goal." //([|www.wikipedia.org])//
 * "... any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty." //([|www.dictionary.com])//

Business Organisations (and regular people for that matter) encounter problems every day, from the very simple and straightforward, to much more complex. Each problem will require some kind of decision to be made in order to reach the best outcome. There are two types of decisions that you may be faced with:

__Programmed Decisions__ - Also called routine decisions, these are everyday problems that have a pre-defined decision.These decisions often form the basis of an organisations policies and procedures. //Example:// //**Problem**// - I want to go outside but the door is closed. //**Solution**// - Unlock the door. //**Problem**// - A customer comes into your store to return a faulty product //**Solution**// - You offer them a replacement product or a refund.

__Non-programmed Decisions__ - Also called complex decisions, these are problems that arise that have no pre-defined decision. Such problems may occur on a less frequent basis, and require more thought and consideration. Often consultation with others is necessary to make the best decision. //Example:// //**Problem**// - You have gained entrance to three different Universities. //**Problem**// - The General Manager has instructed you to make 3 members of your staff redundant.

**Task Two**
Identify examples of programmed and non-programmed decisions.

 **//Comment with Examples of Decisions//** <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Using the wall below, contribute an example of a decision that either you have already made, or one that you might have to make. Put the programmed decisions on the left. The non-programmed decisions on the right. //(HINT: Double-click the wall to type your contribution)//

<span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif;">media type="custom" key="10192341" //For help with Wallwisher go to the Tool Test//

**Checkpoint!**

<span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">**// Before you move on to the next page, you should be able to do the following things: //**
 * <span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">**//Recognise the difference between programmed and non-programmed decisions.//**