Reflection Paper

Scenario One Reflection Paper

The essence of an organization's consistent advancement is the ability to solve problems effectively. When potential problems or issues arise the root cause is first identified, and decisions are made to resolve the problem. If an organization gradually seeks out and removes problems in this way, consistent improvement will result. This process appears very simple. However, organizations must have an effective problem-solving method to use. Through using the 9-step problem-solving model we have found that the model is a practical tool when problem-solving and can be a very thorough way of determining what the situation is, what if any challenges exist and what are opportunities involved in solving the problem. We each have several ideas of what should be considered when using the model and ways we could apply the model in our workplaces. Furthermore, the 9-step problemÐ'-solving model is an extremely effective tool, has minimal challenges and can be applied in almost any organization or situation.

Effectiveness of the 9-Step Problem-Solving Model

With any business, there will be problems that arises or decisions to be made. Unfortunately, solving these problems usually involves snap decisions with little regard to trying to ensure that the best decision is made. The problem with not thinking a decision through is that often the wrong decision is made with regard to the desired end state. Ultimately these decisions can lead to an even greater monetary cost to the company in the form of quality, lost productivity and even having to solve the problem all over again.

According to Miles (2005), the decision-making process is a "process that involves taking a series of interrelated investigative steps and designing a plan to solve a problem or answer a need effectively in a manner that meets the needs and goals of the individual and the organization" (pp. 27-28). The major benefit of the 9-step problem-solving model is that it forces the solver to take a more focused view of the issue. The 9-step model allows the solver to take a step-by-step critical thinking approach that produces a more intelligently defined problem. Only when the problem is well defined can the team or solver produce the optimal solution for the organization and the individual.

In our exploration of the 9-step model we have learned that there exist opportunities as well as challenges in every issue, and that by taking a problem step-by-step by using the 9-step model we can identify and respond to the challenges and opportunities in each problem. Furthermore, with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities within each problem, precise end state goals can be described. Once the end state goal or goals are clearly described it becomes an easier task to determine whether the proposed solution is the correct or optimal solution.

If followed correctly the 9-step model leaves little room for error. While no method is going to be fool proof, the 9-step problem-solving method does allow the solver to be extremely secure about the decision-making process and the optimal solution ultimately proposed. Of course, with any method there are sure to be challenges. Additionally, the 9-step model was used in the AutoMex scenario with several challenges and successes.

Challenges of the 9-Step Problem-Solving Model

There were several challenges that were presented by the 9-step problem-solving model as it was used in the USAuto-AutoMex scenario. Both USAuto and AutoMex were faced with challenges that the companies will have to address in order to reach the desired levels of success. According to the model, USAuto faced the following challenges:

1) The company's manufacturing plants were causing increases in labor costs per car

2) An existing labor contract with UAW resulted in high content costs for labor

3) Creating the hybrid engine is the company's only initiative to contribute to the future success of the company

4) USAuto's current high priced technology can be duplicated very easily especially by manufacturers

5) Foreign auto makers are infringing on the market share of USAuto and have focused only on the U.S. domestic markets as their targets

Listed below are the challenges faced by AutoMex:

1) AutoMex is now considered to be the low cost labor provider but has limited resources to build their technology presence from square one

2) AutoMex's strategic position will take a downward shift as technology capabilities become more important than inexpensive assembly

As the 9-step problem-solving model is used in the future, it is apparent that there are ways that the challenges can be overcome. It is up to the decision makers of the companies to implement plans that will contribute to conquering these challenges. As upper management comes in agreement in realizing what problems lie within the company, they can then decide if the problems are worth solving. They must also describe the end-state goals so that each decision maker will be on one accord. In an attempt to determine the correct solution for the given situation, the company decision makers must identify and evaluate the possible alternatives. As they move forward in the 9-step problem-solving model, they must identify and assess the risks, make the decision, develop and implement a possible solution, and evaluate the results. As both companies follow through with the model and stay focused, they will be able to overcome the challenges listed above in order to survive in their industry (Arinaitwe, 2006).

Many orgazniations face challenges every day. These challenges exist when trying to apply the 9-Step model or an alternative solving problem method. First is the challenge of time. As in any manufacturing environment, there is an immediate need to fix any problems that arise and get the assembly line moving again. In instances where warranty concerns arise, and the assembly line is still running, there is an immediate need to resolve these issues before we build more vehicles for sale to the customer. As a new user of the 9-step model, it will take some time to be able to understand it well enough to be able to incorporate it in a timely manner into my work environment.

Second, similar to the time challenge, is the slow pace required to work through each step in the 9-step model and the labor costs associated with the meeting time. In order for the process to be effective each step