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Creative problem solving Questions to Ask Are your people working towards the same organizational goals? Are these goals shared by all, including you? Do your people have ample opportunity to present their own ideas and/or suggestions for change? Are there organizational issues that, despite your efforts, remain hindrances to improving productivity, profitability, and morale? Description of Service Creative problem solving, "Results and Process Management," is a facilitated group process designed to address particularly difficult organizational issues, create an atmosphere of trust and openness, and develop a workable, tangible plan for improvement. The creative problem solving process uses a thoroughly tested methodology that encourages both individual and team participation, investigates creative solutions to issues, and comes to a positive closure with an action plan and defined roles and responsibilities. Benefits Improved communication and participation Development of a tangible, workable action plan with defined tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities Creation of a forum for the sharing of ideas and suggestions Requires less time to develop a plan than traditional methods Examples A public relations function of a major telecommunications company desired to develop a "stakeholder management" plan. Results -- The public relations managers from around the various regions developed a confidential, task-specific plan to deal with and manage the various stakeholders (e.g., the public, legislators, public utility commissions, etc.). A manufacturer (rebuilder) desired to enlist management and supervision in the development of a long-range plan for improving profits and expanding markets. Results -- A two-day facilitated planning session was held with all management and supervisory staff, bringing them together for the first time, and a specific plan was mutually developed. A not-for-profit, United Way agency desired to develop an annual plan with participation from management, staff, and the Board of Directors. Results -- The first day-long session was so successful, the agency has requested annual "update" sessions for the past three years and, in the process, the agency has changed its focus, improved its funding, and increased its membership. All contents Copyright © 1997, 1999, 2000 David Norman & Associates. All Rights Reserved.