Problem Formulation and Identification

Problem Formulation and Identification

Anjni Kumar

Jennifer Marciel

Me Mai Nou Yang

June 29, 2010

University of Phoenix

Problem Formulation and Identification

“Decision-making must be followed by action, so it is frequently preceded by problem-solving or finding causes” (Langdon, 2001, p. 2). Most organizations follow the process similar to the decision-making steps. Every organization has different tools and processes in which they use to form and identify problems. Some tools and techniques may work better at one organization, whereas the same tools may not be so helpful for other organizations. Every tool and style of technique has weaknesses and strengths. Some of the tools and style techniques in which Team A uses at their organization are score carding, line graph, brainstorming, and prioritization matrix. These different styles can help resolve problems in a manner that will affect the stakeholders and customers.

To understand how the problem is formed and how to identify the problem, one must know what steps are needed to arrive at the root cause. With the proper tools to help identify the possible opportunities the problems will arrive at resolution. Frito Lay uses a process similar to the decision-making process. The process is called the performance process. The performance process consists of seven steps. The steps starts with reviewing the performance, identifying opportunities, identifying causes, developing solutions, action planning, executing, and following up.

The performance process at Frito Lay is used when managers and team members used the two types of tools and technique styles of score carding and flight plan. The score card provides a snap shot of how a team is performing. Frito Lay uses the colors red, yellow, and green to indicate performance. The color red indicates that the team is performing below goal. The color yellow indicates that the team is performing below goal, but better than the previous year end. The color green...