The Influential Problem Solver®: COURSE AGENDA

Pre-Program Assignment

Participants read a “real-time” case study that requires positive influence and collaboration to solve. They also identify and describe up to three “on-the-job” problems that they currently face in their work. In Day #2, they will have an opportunity to analyze, and use the techniques they learned to address these job-related problems.
Independent Reading and Preliminary Analysis

Day One

8:00 am | Program Introduction
We clarify Program objectives, introduce a comprehensive three-phase Problem Solving Cycle and define positive influence and team collaboration.
Lecture and Discussion

8:30 am | Influence, Energy and Styles
Participants briefly review the Situational Influence Model, the behaviors associated with each Style, and clarify their understanding of each Style as it is used in organizational settings.
Fish Bowl Exercises, Lecture and Discussion

9:30 am | Discovery Exercise: Solving a Complex Problem under Pressure
Participants work in small teams to collaboratively analyze the cause of a complex “real-time” organizational problem. Once consensus is reached, each team then presents its theory about the problem’s root cause and possible solutions.
Individual Preparation, team collaboration and large group presentations

10:30 am | Break

10:45 am | Phase I: Problem Analysis and Team Collaboration Methodology
Participants learn a concrete, step-by-step approach for analyzing a wide range of complex problems., A practical method is also provided for determining the most effective styles for generating positive collaboration in team situations.
Lecture and Discussion

12:00 pm | Lunch

1:00 pm | Case Study #1: Initial Practice and Debrief
Participants practice using the Problem Analysis Process in a competitive team situation. Teams also review the influence and collaboration styles used during the team’s analysis.
Individual Preparation, team collaboration and large group presentations

2:45 pm | Break

3:00 pm | Case Study #2: Refinement of Skills and Debrief
Participants work in teams to further refine using the Problem Analysis approach in a collaborative situation. Team members debrief the impact of influence and collaboration styles used during the team’s analysis of the case problem.
Individual Preparation, Team Collaboration and Large Group Debrief

4:45 pm | Day One Review/Evening Assignment
Participants review the Phase I: Problem Analysis Process and complete their Pre-session On-The-Job Problem Identification Worksheet.
Individual Analysis and Preparation

5:00 pm | End of Day One

Day Two

8:30 am | Problem Analysis/Influence Strategy Review
Trainer leads interactive review of the Phase I: Problem Analysis Process and Influencing Strategies.
Lecture and Discussion, Fishbowl Demonstrations, Small Group Roleplays

9:30 am | “Real-Time” Application of Problem Analysis Methodology
Each participant selects a “real-time” problem to sponsor and meets in small peer groups to both analyze the information and to practice their influencing skills. Members share feedback regarding the impact of sponsor’s questioning and influencing skills.
Individual Analysis, Small Group Consultation, Peer-to-Peer Feedback

10:30 am | Break

10:45 am | Problem Analysis Review and Participant Application Planning
Trainer leads a final review of the Problem Analysis Process. Participants complete their On-The-Job Application Worksheet and share their “takeaways” with one-another.
Discussion, Individual Preparation, Peer-to-Peer Sharing and Consultation

11:30 am | Phase II: Solution Generation Methodology
Participants learn a practical, step-by-step approach for analyzing a wide range of complex decisions both individually and in team situations. Influencing and collaboration strategies are reviewed.
Lecture and Discussion

12:00 pm | Lunch

12:45 pm | Skill Practice
Using the “Solution Generation Worksheet,” participants collaboratively analyze a variety of decision alternatives in a team situation. Participants compare the outcome of their analysis with the other teams.
Individual Preparation, Team Collaboration and Peer-to-Peer Sharing

2:30 pm | Break

2:45 pm | Phase III: Plan Formulation Methodology
Trainer provides brief overview of a practical approach for planning the implementation of decisions/actions. Strategies are reviewed for managing risk and preventing potential problems from arising when taking action. In a large group exercise, participants identify and share their strategies for managing risk.
Lecture and Discussion

3:45 pm | Program Review and Application Planning
Trainer reviews the overall Problem Solving Cycle and tools learned. Participants add to their Application Planning Worksheet and share their action plans. The session is concluded by completing a formal program evaluation.
Lecture and Discussion, Individual Preparation, Peer-to-Peer Sharing

4:30 pm | End Day Two

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