Be a Great Problem Solver – Now!: The 2-In-1 Manager: Speed Read - Instant Tips; Big Picture - Lasting Results, 1st edition

Published by Pearson Business (May 18, 2016) © 2016

  • Adrian Reed
$23.20

  • A print text (hardcover or paperback)
  • Free shipping

Discover how to Be a Great Problem Solver - Now!

This 2-in-1 guide is designed to help you solve problems in an instant, whilst giving you the deeper knowledge to ensure long-lasting results.

With the unique 2-in-1 approach, you can learn your way. Use the seven Speed Read tips immediately, then take your time exploring the Big Picture chapters.

·    Analyse business problems and opportunities objectively and effectively to generate a range of possible solutions

·    Avoid falling into the trap of selecting the first, easy solution

·    Understand how to work collaboratively with co-workers and stakeholders

·    Use a one-page ‘Problem Canvas’ to scope out and explore a problem

As an ambitious manager, you need the right information at the right time to help you advance in your career. The 2-in-1 Manager will ensure you improve and succeed in business, right now and in the future.

Discover how to Be a Great Problem Solver - Now!

This 2-in-1 guide is designed to help you solve problems in an instant, whilst giving you the deeper knowledge to ensure long-lasting results.

With the unique 2-in-1 approach, you can learn your way. Use the 7 Speed Read tips immediately, then take your time exploring the Big Picture chapters.

·    Analyse business problems and opportunities objectively and effectively to generate a range of possible solutions

·    Avoid falling into the trap of selecting the first solution that seems feasible

·    Understand how to work collaboratively with co-workers and stakeholders

·    Use a one-page ‘Problem Canvas’ to scope out and explore a problem

As an ambitious manager, you need the right information at the right time to help you advance in your career. ‘The 2-in-1 Manager’ will ensure you improve and succeed in business, right now and in the future.

Introduction
About the Author
Acknowledgements

 

Chapter 1. Avoid the Solution Trap

 

Speed Read 
1.1 What’s wrong with a knee-jerk solution? 
1.2 Think Holistically 
1.3 Structure your problem solving 
1.4 Scour the stakeholder landscape 
1.5 Slow down to speed up 
1.6 Uncover constraints 
1.7 Be concise yet precise: Introducing the one page Problem Canvas

 

Big Picture 
1.1 What’s wrong with a knee-jerk solution? 
1.2 Think Holistically 
1.3 Structure your problem solving approach 
1.4 Scour the stakeholder landscape 
1.5 Slow down to speed up : Be prepared for challenge 
1.6 Uncover Constraints 
1.7 Be concise yet precise: Introducing the one-page Problem Canvas 

 

Chapter 2. Think Problem before Solution 

 

Speed Read 
2.1 The importance of “Why”
2.2 Defining a problem or opportunity statement 
2.3 Encourage Divergent and Convergent Thinking 
2.4 Get to the root of the problem 
2.5 Consider the External Environment
2.6 Consider Multiple Perspectives on the Problem 
2.7 Gain Consensus and Move Forward 

 

Big Picture 
2.1 The importance of “Why” 
2.2. Defining a problem or opportunity statement 
2.3 Encourage Divergent and Convergent Thinking 
2.4 Get to the root of the problem 
2.5 Consider the External Environment 
2.6 Consider Multiple Perspectives on the Problem 
2.7 Gain Consensus and Move Forward 

 

Chapter 3. Defining the Outcomes: What Does Success Look Like? 

 

Speed Read 
3.1 Encourage Outcome Based Thinking 
3.2 Start With the End in Mind: Define Critical Success Factor 
3.3 Make it measurable with Key Performance Indicators 
3.4 Attain Balance with the Balanced Business Scorecards 
3.5 Revisit and Consider Constraints 
3.6 Ensuring Organisational Alignment 
3.7 Assess different perspectives on outcomes 

 

Big Picture
3.1 Encourage outcome-based thinking 
3.2 Start With the End in Mind: Define Critical Success Factors 
3.3 Make it measurable with Key Performance Indicators 
3.4 Attain Balance with the Balanced Business Scorecard 
3.5 Revisit and Consider Constraints 
3.6 Ensuring Organisational Alignment 
3.7 Assess different perspectives on outcomes 

 

Chapter 4. Assessing Scope and Impact 

 

Speed Read
4.1 The danger of “Scope Creep” 
4.2 Know the difference: Impacted, Interested and Involved 
4.3 Understand the problem situation 
4.4 Find the Roles & Goals 
4.5 Make it visual with a Business Use Case Model 
4.6 Set the priorities 
4.7 Set the boundaries of scope 

Big Picture 
4.1 The danger of “Scope Creep” 
4.2 Know the difference: Impacted, Interested and Involved 
4.3 Understand the problem situation 
4.4 Find the Roles & Goals 
4.5 Make it visual with a Business Use Case Model 
4.6 Set the priorities 
4.7 Set the boundaries of scope 

 

Chapter 5. Solutioneering: Generating Solution Options 

 

Speed Read 
5.1 Keep the outcomes clearly in mind 
5.2 Get Together and Imagine Multiple Solutions 
5.3 Start evaluating solutions: Create a “long list” 
5.4 Getting Specific: Short list the best 
5.5 Consider Doing Nothing 
5.6 Compare the short listed options 
5.7 Validate and make a recomme

Adrian Reed is an enthusiastic Business Analyst and Consultant who loves working with others to solve tricky problems.  He is Principal Consultant at Blackmetric Business Solutions, a niche business analysis training and consulting firm based in the UK.   He speaks internationally on topics related to business analysis and problem solving, and enthusiastically believes in the benefits of good problem definition and business analysis. 

Need help? Get in touch

Video
Play
Privacy and cookies
By watching, you agree Pearson can share your viewership data for marketing and analytics for one year, revocable by deleting your cookies.

Pearson eTextbook: What’s on the inside just might surprise you

They say you can’t judge a book by its cover. It’s the same with your students. Meet each one right where they are with an engaging, interactive, personalized learning experience that goes beyond the textbook to fit any schedule, any budget, and any lifestyle.