LABMAN Decision Making and Problem Solving

Human element are factors that can never be completely eliminated and cannot be controlled

• TRUE

• FALSE

Answer explanation

Human element are factors that can never be completely eliminated BUT THEY MUST BE CONTROLLED

All of the following are considered as human element except

• Emotions

• Peer Pressure

• Prejudices

• None of the above

Answer explanation

The human elements are: Emotions, Prejudices, Peer Pressure, Personal Interest

__________ is a conscious choice made after evaluating the available alternatives for the purpose of achieving a specific result.

This is the first step in making sound decision.

Answer explanation

Steps in Making Sound Decision

1. Recognition
2. Investigation
3. Definition
4. Identification of Alternatives
5. Solution Evaluation and Selection
6. Implementation and Follow-up

All of the following are qualitative tools in decision making techniques except

• Simulation

• Brainstorming

• T-chart

• Personal Judgment

Answer explanation

Qualitative Tools in decision making

1. Personal Judgement
2. Solicitation Advice ( Brainstorming, Synectics, Nominal Grouping
3. Systematic Option Review ( T-chart)

Refers to a one-time random human error

• Effectual Problem

• Deviation

• Causal Problem

Answer explanation

a. Deviation – A one-time random human error

b. Effectual Problem - The symptom or surface sign that may hide the real cause of a problem

c. Causal Problem – The root cause of the problem

Good decision should be

• I - based on a complete investigation of the root causes and potential problems; as well as the obvious symptoms.

• II - should encompass an effective strategy for an implementing the solution

• Both I & II

• Neither I & II

Answer explanation

I. CHARACTERISTICS OF GOOD DECISION

1. It should be based on a complete investigation of the root causes and potential problems; as well as the obvious symptoms.

2. It should identify and evaluate alternative solutions

3. It should involve the selection of the best solution by in-depth analysis of the available information.

4. It should encompass an effective strategy for an implementing the solution

A group whose members are bought together as a problem-solving team

• Synectics

• Nominal Grouping

• Brainstorming

Answer explanation

§ Brainstorming – A technique used in groups whereby everyone freely and spontaneously throws out ideas and solutions for later evaluation without regard for validity

§ Synectics - A group whose members are bought together as a problem-solving team

§ Nominal Grouping - A highly structured meeting in which individuals write their original ideas in private, with the alternative solutions anonymously presented to the group for discussion and then voted on and tallied in secret.

A technique for evaluating alternative solutions by writing down the advantages of each option

• Queuing Theory

• T- chart

• Nominal Grouping

• Simulations

A schematic presentation that demonstrates the probability potential of selecting a particular course of action at specific decision option point

• Payoff matrix

• Decision Trees

• Linear programming

• Operations Research