The Differences Between Decision-making & Problem-solving Skills

The Process Approach

Problem solving involves creating a solution to a particular situation or obstacle. For example, a problem might involve trying to figure out how to stop the loss of productivity in the workplace. In contrast to problem solving, decision making involves analyzing a course of action. Typically, two or more courses of action are weighed in order to find which one is the better choice.

While both concepts are similar, they are different in the fact that one concept is trying to solve an issue while the other concept is attempting to decide a course of action. There is a great deal of overlap in this area. Despite the differences between the two concepts a similar methodology can be used to solve for an issue or to make a decision (Bateman & Snell, 2011).

1. Define the issue
2. Gather the facts
3. Brainstorm possible options
4. Consider and compare the pros and cons of each option 5. Select the best option (Chapman, 2010).

The decision-making process and the problem-solving process both begin with identifying the problem or issue. Once this idea is identified a method such as I used above can be applied.

References

Bateman, T. S., & Snell, S. A. (2011). Management: Leading & collaborating in a competitive world (9th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Irwin.

Chapman, A. (2010). problem-solving and decision-making simple processes for problem- solving and decision-making. Retrieved from http://www.businessballs.com/problemsolving.htm