Details
In today’s complex and fast-changing work environment, organisations need employees who can think clearly, analyse problems objectively, and make sound decisions. This course equips learners with practical critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving tools that improve decision quality, stakeholder engagement, and implementation success. Participants learn how to identify root causes, evaluate solutions objectively, involve key stakeholders effectively, and communicate decisions with confidence. For HR managers, this programme supports stronger managerial capability, better risk management, and more consistent, evidence-based decision-making across teams.
- Apply critical and analytical thinking skills to identify and analyse workplace problems
- Distinguish between symptoms and root causes using structured analysis tools
- Engage stakeholders effectively in problem analysis and decision-making
- Generate, evaluate, and select feasible solutions using objective criteria
- Apply decision-making tools to assess risks and outcomes
- Develop clear implementation plans to support successful execution
- Communicate decisions effectively and manage change within the organisation
Delivery Methods
| Delivery Method | Duration | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Days | Get a Quote | ||
| 3 Days | Get a Quote |
Discounts Available
Brochure:
Audience
- Supervisors and team leaders
- Middle and junior managers
- Aspiring managers and high-potential employees
- Professionals involved in decision-making, planning, or problem-solving
- Employees identified for leadership or management development programmes
Pre-Requisites
It is assumed that learners are competent in:
- Communication at NQF Level 4
- Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 4
- Computer Literacy at NQF Level 4
A matric or equivalent certificate is acceptable to prove the above entry requirements.
Course Outline / Curriculum
1. Application of Critical and Analytical Skills in Problem Analysis
- Identifying the real problem rather than symptoms to avoid ineffective solutions
- Breaking problems into smaller components to understand causes, effects, trends, and relationships
- Applying critical thinking to decide what to believe or do using evidence and reflection
- Key skills include independent thinking, accurate problem definition, data analysis, and meta-cognition
- Demonstrating critical thinking behaviours such as delaying judgment, separating fact from opinion, active listening, and revising views based on evidence
- Using analytical tools such as mind mapping for idea generation and cause-and-effect (fishbone) analysis to identify root causes
2. Stakeholder Engagement in Problem Analysis
- Identifying and consulting relevant stakeholders early to improve solution quality and secure support
- Classifying stakeholders by influence, interest, and readiness for change
- Managing stakeholder roles by identifying advocates, neutrals, and blockers
- Conducting environmental analysis to assess internal and external factors affecting the issue
- Valuing diverse perspectives to enhance decision quality, collaboration, and team morale
- Applying engagement practices such as bias awareness, clear communication, inclusive input, and shared decision-making.
3. Selecting Feasible Solutions
- Generating solutions by suspending judgment and encouraging creative, lateral thinking
- Using brainstorming techniques to produce a wide range of ideas in a supportive environment
- Evaluating solutions against criteria such as cost, time, resources, feasibility, risk, and stakeholder commitment
- Defining the ideal solution and eliminating options that do not meet constraints
- Applying evaluation tools including:
- Cost-Benefit Analysis
- NAF (Novelty, Attractiveness, Feasibility) scoring
- Paired Comparison
- Pros and Cons Analysis
4. Formulating and Communicating the Decision
- Using structured decision-making tools such as Six Thinking Hats and decision trees to assess options objectively
- Developing an implementation work plan with SMART goals, resources, responsibilities, and timelines
- Leading change using Kotter’s change management principles to build momentum and sustain results
- Communicating decisions clearly by explaining the rationale, aligning with strategy and values, and selecting appropriate communication channels
- Establishing feedback mechanisms to confirm understanding and support continuous improvement
Schedule Dates and Booking
There are currently no scheduled dates.