Tools and Techniques Paper
Decision-making and problem-solving are important skills for business and life. We solve
problems and make decisions everyday. Problem-solving often involves decision-making,
and decision-making is especially important for management and leadership.
Decision-making is the ultimate selection of a course of action after problem-solving has
been exhausted. Although problem-solving and decision-making are two separate
behaviors, they complement one another. Furthermore, for any problem or issue that needs
to be resolved, there are various tools and techniques that could be used. One must first
find out what tools are available and choose which tool is appropriate for the situation and
decision that needs to be made. Also, one must then learn how to use it, understand the
advantages and disadvantages, comprehend the procedures, and when to use the chosen
tool or technique and not to use the chosen tool or technique.
Steps in the problem solving process include: defining the problem and collecting data,
analyzing the data, evaluating and selecting possible solutions, and developing an action
plan for implementation. To solve organizational problems and make effective decisions, a
proper tool and/or technique needs to be selected during the planning stage (Daft and
Marcic 2004, pg. 155). This may be the most essential step in the problem-solving process.
Description of Technique
One possible technique used for decision-making is thenominal group technique, which is
a subcategory of brainstorming. Brainstorming is a tool used to stimulate and capture
creative thoughts and ideas. It involves the creative generation of many ideas to solve a
problem. The nominal group technique, or NGT, is another variation on open
