Importance of Problem Solving in Small Groups

Running Head: The Importance of Problem-Solving Procedures in Small Groups

Unit 7 Project:

Shertina J. Mack

CM 420 – Kaplan University

In the first chapter of the textbook, Interpersonal Communication in the Workplace, Communication is defined as “…the process of transferring thoughts and ideas from one person to another” (Hamilton, West & Goodall, 2007, p. 5). Organizational communication can occur in a variety of ways. Organizations communicate in small groups, during one-on-one meetings or amongst large groups of people. Effective communication skills, critical thinking skills and problem solving techniques are especially important for members and leaders of successful. According to the article by Craig Cochran, Six Problem-Solving Fundamentals, “The essence of continual improvement is the ability to solve problems effectively” (Cochran, 2006). Productive meetings are a result of leaders and team members possessing the ability to effectively use a basic problem-solving procedure, which includes: 1. Defining the problem, 2. Researching and analyzing it, 3. Establishing a checklist of criteria, 4. Listing all possible alternatives, 5. Evaluating each alternative, and 6. Selecting the best alternative.

Having and using a clearly-defined method for solving problems can help a group to maintain a high-level of productivity. When a task force or committee begins their work, by first defining a problem and getting a clear idea of the root issue, less time is spent speculating. I have recent experience as a leader of an ad hoc committee that was formed to review a newly revised bylaw document for another committee. As the group leaders, one of the first things that I did was to determine what the overall goal for our group should be and then I developed a project plan. I am a firm believer that if you fail to plan, then you should plan to fail. The first meeting of the small group was simply to have the members of the team to become...