Framework that has been tested at a top tier consulting firm
Examples to help understand key concepts
Simple and pragmatic problem solving process
PROBLEM SOLVING PPT DESCRIPTION
Enhance your problem-solving skills with this comprehensive PPT, crafted by ex-McKinsey consultants. Learn structured methodologies for effective decision-making. Problem Solving and Decision Making is a 32-slide PPT PowerPoint presentation slide deck (PPT) available for immediate download upon purchase.
According to McKinsey, structured problem solving can be used to address almost any complex challenge in business or public policy. Consulting deliverables typically take the form of PowerPoint presentations.
AIM:
1. This document explains how to identify, define and solve problems in a structured manner and communicate findings effectively to the client. It has a strong focus on hypothesis generation techniques utilized by the world's leading consulting firm.
2. It introduces tools that consultants can add to their toolkit of skills and use for many types of problem-solving and is suitable for anyone who is looking for a robust methodology to solve complex problems.
CONTENTS
The Problem Solving and Decision Making deck outlines the following topic:
1. The key principles of the logical problem-solving approach – Impact driven, focused and fact-based
2. The problem-solving cycle – problem definition, problem structuring, prioritization, issue analysis and work plan, analysis, synthesis, and recommendations
3. Problem statement "framework"
4. What is an issue tree and why is it important?
5. Prioritization and methods for prioritizing
6. Synthesis and it's objective
This deck emphasizes the importance of a well-defined problem statement, highlighting characteristics such as specificity, measurability, action orientation, relevance, and time-bound criteria. It guides you through the process of structuring the problem, encouraging disaggregation and hypothesis generation to identify key elements. The issue tree is presented as a crucial tool for breaking down complex problems into manageable sub-issues, facilitating efficient analysis and team collaboration.
The PPT also delves into prioritization, stressing the need to focus on high-impact actions given limited resources. It covers the entire problem-solving cycle, from problem definition to developing actionable recommendations. The distinction between summary and synthesis is clarified, ensuring that your conclusions are not just a collection of facts, but a coherent, actionable strategy. This resource is designed to equip you with a comprehensive framework for tackling intricate business challenges.
Got a question about the product? Email us at support@flevy.com or ask the author directly by using the "Ask the Author a Question" form. If you cannot view the preview above this document description, go here to view the large preview instead.
This PPT slide presents a framework integrating the "Mutually Exclusive Collectively Exhaustive" (MECE) principle with the 80/20 rule to enhance problem-solving efficiency. The MECE approach breaks down a central question into distinct, non-overlapping ideas, promoting clarity in analysis. The 80/20 rule illustrates that approximately 20% of effort can yield around 80% of results, highlighting the diminishing returns of excessive refinement. The shaded area labeled "NOT EFFICIENT" emphasizes these inefficiencies. By applying the MECE framework alongside the 80/20 rule, executives can streamline problem-solving processes and focus on high-impact areas, optimizing resource allocation and decision-making.
This PPT slide outlines a structured approach to problem-solving and decision-making, emphasizing the formulation of clear problem statements to define objectives specifically. The "Background and context" section highlights the importance of understanding industry trends and relative positioning. The "What is success?" segment identifies financial returns and market share growth as key success criteria. The "Stakeholders" section recognizes primary decision-makers, such as CEOs and Division Managers, and the influence of internal and external parties, including shareholders. Finally, "Potential challenges" defines project scope boundaries, referencing the 80/20 rule for prioritizing efforts. This approach sharpens organizational focus on problems, enhancing clarity and alignment among stakeholders.
The Oilco refinery faces poor profitability despite a strong market position, indicating underlying challenges. Stakeholders agree on the need for action to address its deteriorating position, marking a critical juncture for the organization. A broader inquiry about alternative management strategies to enhance profitability is deemed too general, highlighting the necessity for precise problem framing. This PPT slide underscores the importance of structured problem statements in guiding organizational strategy and improving performance, emphasizing targeted questions that drive actionable insights rather than vague inquiries.
This PPT slide outlines a structured problem-solving framework that follows a cyclical process. It begins with "Problem definition," where the core issue is articulated, leading to more effective solutions. The next step, "Problem structuring," organizes the problem into manageable components for deeper understanding. "Prioritisation" determines which aspects to address first, ensuring efficient resource allocation. The cycle progresses to "Issue analysis and work plan," examining identified issues to uncover underlying causes and impacts. This is followed by "Synthesis" and "Recommendations," integrating insights into actionable strategies. The framework encourages continuous improvement and proactive problem-solving, enhancing clarity and effectiveness in decision-making.
Source: Best Practices in Problem Solving, Decision Making, Bain PowerPoint PowerPoint Slides: Problem Solving and Decision Making PowerPoint (PPT) Presentation Slide Deck, Corporate Finance 101
Corporate Finance 101 consists of ex EY and Grant Thornton consultants who have experience helping professionals across disciplines, with a focus on strategy consulting and transaction advisory.
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