Creative problem solving

Creative Issue Solving

Creative issue solving is a well-known technique for handling a situation or a task in an original and creative manner. It is a process that helps redefine opportunities and workplace conflicts; it facilitates the generation of alternative solutions and then executes them (Beebe & Masterson, 2014). The methods and tactics used should make the process enjoyable, engaging, and cooperative. In the end, this paper will explore the different types of conflict that might arise when working in groups, how future approaches to conflict will evolve, how teamwork can use group cohesiveness strategies, decision-making styles, and problem-solving methods.

Types of Conflict in Group Work

Which type of conflict have you experienced when working in groups? Conflict is often unavoidable in a working environment, most workplaces are multi-cultural, people have different temperaments, attitudes, and behaviors; therefore the office is not exempted from conflict. Conflict in an organization can be a challenge to resolve and if not dealt with it can result in despair, job dissatisfaction, and overall decline in performance and employee turnover. Here are some of the conflict styles I have encountered while working in groups:

Avoiding Conflict

The first conflict style I encountered while working in a group is avoiding conflict. By avoiding conflict one chooses to withdraw from a dispute and walks away as if nothing has happened. While working in groups it is common for members to get into conflict and drop the issue, they pretend all is well and that no animosity exists. It is usually considered uncourageous and inconsiderate for the other members as parties within the group shut down entirely and resist each other.

Standing Your Ground

The second conflict style I encountered is standing your ground. In an effort to show dominance within a group, some members choose to stand their ground to have their way. It takes courage for one to stay firm which can sometimes seem inconsiderate if they are wrong, it could be perceived as a form of competition to win every time one is in a contentious position. Parties that apply this approach in a group always have their way but in the long run, it damages their relationship with others.

Giving In

The third conflict style is giving in. Much as some members of a group avoid conflict and others stay firm to have their way, I have encountered people who give in to arguments or disputes to accommodate the points of view of others. This style of conflict requires more of courage and mutual effort, even though it is perceived as a weak attribute by others in the group. It can be counteractive to group goals since, other than letting peace prevail to let the group progress the one who gives in will become resentful to the parties that stand their ground all the while.

Approach to Conflict in the Future

How will your approach to conflict change in the future based on what you have learned in this course?

In future, I will not evade conflict instead I will use the descriptive approach to establish the stages that the group will go through during the resolution process. I will initiate communication within the group to define the problem and discuss preliminary solutions. Through communication I will state the objectives that the team has to achieve to help to set guidelines and strategies, I will also encourage an open door policy to keep communication open for everyone to speak their mind and share their views.

Group Cohesion Strategies

What group cohesion strategies will you apply in future teamwork?

Cohesion strategies involve communication, helping in dispute resolution, promoting trust, and encouraging feedback. I will choose to have an open door policy to keep communication open within the team; whenever a problem arises I will assist in identifying its source and resolving the issue to avoid animosity that might affect overall output. Lastly, I will encourage feedback from all members to build trust and good working relations.

Strategies to Strengthen Group Work

Describe these strategies and how they strengthen group work.

Communication is core to strengthening teamwork, regular communication improves the performance of the group as it encourages people to open up share their views and get feedback on pressing matters. It also promotes trust among members since no secrets are kept. Assist in conflict resolution is when supervisors ensure they intervene to resolve an issue, it helps to iron out differences and get members back on track. By encouraging feedback managers and supervisors keep track of operations to know what needs to be fixed for better performance.

Decision-Making Style

What is your own decision-making style? Describe this style and how you will apply it to future work?

Much as the democratic style is the most popular in decision making, I prefer the consultative style or rational decision maker. As a rational decision maker, I have to ensure the choices made will be of benefit to the team. I will engage all team members to enlist as many options as possible and break them down to choose the best option that will work effectively towards the objectives.

Decisions come with consequences; therefore, it is important to make them in a rational manner. I will apply the style by creating a balance within the group, to make sure every member gives their view; their thoughts will count on every brainstorming session to ensure there is feedback for every option discussed before a choice is made.

Approach to Problem-Solving

How will you approach problem-solving in the future based on what you have learned in this course? Describe this style and how you will apply it to future group work?

In future I will apply the problem analysis technique, the criteria matrix, and action plan, I will call for meetings to analyze the existing problems and the primary sources, the criteria matrix will be applied to derive alternative solutions and a strategic plan to implement them is formulated. Finally, an action plan will be initiated, I will assign different members to equal tasks to execute solutions, communication lines will be open and feedback given on any matter that arises and is resolved. The style will involve communication, brainstorming, and equal participation by all members.

Conclusion

Problem-solving and decision making process need not be complicated, it demands a team to be constituted; to analyze the aspect of the problem, brainstorm solutions and execute the best option. Consultation has to be initiated to get everyone involved; a consensus has to be reached after brainstorming and equal participation of all members. Finally, duties have to be delegated to all to make sure inclusivity is achieved in the decision that is implemented.

Reference

Beebe, S. A., & Masterson, J. T. (2015). Communicating in small groups principles and practices (11th ed.) Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collection database.