Group Solving Problem

INTRODUCTION

It has been claimed that many strategies and techniques designed to encourage creative thinking work best in a group setting as comments or ideas made by other people may help to fire our imagination and help us build on their ideas. Besides improving creative thinking, group problem solving also provides many other benefits to the organization and its members. Hence, teamwork, team building and team management are important concepts in effective group problem solving. In this case, we will discuss the benefits of groups in the problem solving process and how groups can be efficiently managed to solve problems effectively.

A.Group problem solving:

1. Introduction

reading: Frohman , 21-22 and an introduction to group problem solving - Mike robson

We often hear the saying, "two heads are better than one".The concept of solving problems in groups is no longer new. Evidence of what teams can contribute in organizations is overwhelming. Many companies are forming teams as a mean to solve various organizational problems

Group problem solving is the best way of tackling issues in three main circumstances.

* First, there are many problems that concern more than one person. In such situations, each of those involved is likely to have a legitimate view, and it is always wise to take these different perceptions into account in arriving at the solution.

* Secondly, there are problems where were is no straightforward single answer, and the right approach needs to be an amalgam of the views of different people.

* Thirdly, there are situation where it is important that those involved are committed to the solution, and sometimes this is more relevant than the solution itself

2.The benefits of group problem solving

reading: Hick, 62-63 article 2 and Michael Stevent 78

Group problem solving provides benefits for the organization as well as the individuals. Some of these benefits include:

a. Improve creative thinking

Solving problems in groups allow all members to build on other people ideas. Hence, productivity is increased.

Groups are usually (but not always) better problem solvers than individuals, because several people can provide more information than one person, can supply more resources, collectively have a broader perspective, and can spot flaws in each other's reasoning

b. Improve communication between team members

Increased complexity in organization demands greater coordination among people in different functions and/or geographic areas.

Forming groups with members from different function and/or geographic areas not only improve communications between them, but also provide a good exchange of specific and general information, ideals and different views which is necessary to effectively solve problem

c. Establish rapport between members

Solving problems in groups encourage group dynamics. Members from different levels, functions and even geographic areas get a chance to understand all members better through communication and coordination. They are more likely to work towards the goal of solving the problem for the common good rather than satisfying its own objectives

d. Increase efficiency and effectiveness

Solving problems in groups, which comprise of most of the problem owners, also increase efficiency and effectiveness. There is also less likely that any resistance to change will occur during the implementation stage, as the problem owners are involved in the whole process.

In this cases where problem solving groups go beyond corporate boundaries to include strategic partners, vendors or suppliers, and customers, problem solving can effectively dealt with as we get views from people closer to the problem, generating the problem and having the problem. For example, a supper market in singapore forms a problem solving group involving its customers to identify their problems and listen to suggestions so that ways to satisfy their customers can be achieved.

3.Do group problem solving always works?

Reading: Hick, 62-63 article 2 and Frohman, 21

Sometimes, using groups to solve problems may also lead to the beginning of another problem.

Effective group problem solving requires good team management. "To succeed, teams need time, patience and tender loving care". Teamwork and effective group problem solving are inextricably linked. Not all problems require a group approach and can be resolved individually.

In addition, not all problems require a group approach. Some tame and routine problems are best resolved individually. Eatablishing groups to solve routine problems may be a waste of time since alot of effort must be put in to conduct meetings, establish group cohesiveness, generate ideas and reaching general consensus for decision making and so forth.

B.TEAM WORK IN GROUP PROBLEM SOLVING

Reading: Hick 69-71 and team work- Kenneth Stott

Teamwork is important in effective group problem solving. A group, which has established a climate of openness, trust and general emotional support, can go a long way in creatively solving problems. The concept of Autonomous Teamwork evolved from the idea of 'winning situations for everyone'. Vincent Nolan (1989) describes autonomous teamwork as people being put together to do what they have chosen to do so that they will make use of their maximum commitment and energy to bring out the best in the group. Autonomous teamwork aims to secure the members' highest level of motivation and commitment by preserving their individual autonomy.

For autonomous teamwork to work effectively, it is necessary to create an environment which, provides:

(a) Frequent opportunities for members to exchange openly with each other their needs, wishes and frustrations and