Introduction:

Effective problem-solving is one of the most critical skills for a project manager. Whether managing a construction site, IT project, or any other large-scale endeavor, the ability to identify, analyze, and solve problems quickly can mean the difference between success and failure. This 5-day course will equip project managers with the tools, techniques, and mindset required to address issues as they arise throughout the project lifecycle. Participants will learn how to define problems, analyze causes, develop and implement solutions, and monitor results to ensure project success.

Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will:

1. Understand the core principles of problem-solving and decision-making in project management.
2. Learn how to define, identify, and frame project problems effectively.
3. Gain familiarity with common problem-solving techniques such as Root Cause Analysis, Brainstorming, and the 5 Whys method.
4. Develop strategies for managing risks and uncertainties that may affect project outcomes.
5. Learn how to make informed decisions quickly, balancing time, cost, and quality.
6. Be able to apply structured problem-solving methods to real-world project challenges.
7. Improve their communication and leadership skills to engage teams in solving problems collaboratively.

Who Should Attend:

This course is designed for project managers and professionals responsible for leading teams and managing projects, including:

• Project Managers and Team Leaders
• Construction Managers and Site Supervisors
• Engineering Managers and Project Coordinators
• Product Managers and Operations Managers
• Consultants and Contractors involved in project delivery
• Anyone involved in managing projects that require problem-solving and decision-making skills

Course Outline:

Day 1: Introduction to Problem-Solving in Project Management

• Session 1: What Is Problem-Solving in Project Management?
  • Defining Problem-Solving and its Importance in Projects
  • The Project Manager’s Role in Problem-Solving
  • Key Components of Effective Problem-Solving: Communication, Analysis, Decision-Making, and Execution
• Session 2: Understanding Project Problems and Challenges
  • Types of Problems in Projects: Technical, Financial, Scheduling, and Communication
  • Identifying the Root Cause of Problems: Symptoms vs. Root Causes
  • Problem Framing: How to Clearly Define the Problem Before Solving It
• Session 3: The Problem-Solving Process
  • Structured Problem-Solving Framework: Define, Analyze, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate
  • Recognizing and Addressing Complex Problems vs. Simple Problems
  • Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Problem-Solving (e.g., jumping to conclusions, focusing on symptoms)
• Activity: Group Discussion – Analyzing a Common Project Problem (e.g., delays, budget overruns) and Defining It Clearly

Day 2: Root Cause Analysis and Techniques for Identifying Problems

• Session 1: Root Cause Analysis (RCA)
  • Introduction to Root Cause Analysis: What It Is and Why It’s Important
  • Tools for RCA: Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa), 5 Whys, and Pareto Analysis
  • Identifying Underlying Causes vs. Symptoms: Ensuring You Solve the Right Problem
• Session 2: Problem Identification and Prioritization
  • Problem-Solving Models: SWOT, Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA)
  • Prioritizing Problems: Which Issues to Address First? Risk Assessment Techniques
  • How to Use Data to Identify the Most Pressing Issues
• Session 3: Problem-Solving with Stakeholders
  • Engaging Team Members and Stakeholders in the Problem-Solving Process
  • Collaborative Decision-Making: When to Involve Others in the Solution Process
  • Managing Expectations and Building Consensus Among Team Members
• Activity: Practical Exercise – Using the 5 Whys Method to Find the Root Cause of a Project Delay

Day 3: Solution Development and Decision-Making

• Session 1: Generating Solutions
  • Techniques for Generating Multiple Solutions: Brainstorming, Mind Mapping, and SCAMPER
  • Evaluating the Pros and Cons of Each Solution: Feasibility, Cost, Time, and Impact
  • Collaborative Problem Solving: Involving Your Team to Innovate Solutions
• Session 2: Decision-Making Tools and Techniques
  • Decision Matrix: Comparing Solutions Based on Key Criteria
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis and Risk Analysis
  • Tools for Quick Decision-Making in Time-Constrained Situations
• Session 3: Overcoming Barriers to Decision-Making
  • Addressing Decision Fatigue and Analysis Paralysis
  • Managing Biases in Decision-Making: Confirmation Bias, Groupthink, etc.
  • How to Take Action When There Is No Perfect Solution
• Activity: Group Workshop – Develop Multiple Solutions for a Hypothetical Project Issue (e.g., resource shortage, scope creep)

Day 4: Implementation of Solutions and Monitoring Progress

• Session 1: Implementing the Solution
  • Turning Solutions into Action: Creating Action Plans and Milestones
  • Communication Plans: Informing Stakeholders and Team Members About the Changes
  • Resource Allocation and Scheduling for Implementation
• Session 2: Monitoring the Implementation and Performance
  • Monitoring Progress: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Problem-Solving
  • Adjusting the Plan as Needed: Agile Problem-Solving and Flexibility
  • Handling Resistance to Change: How to Deal with Pushback from the Team or Stakeholders
• Session 3: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Solutions
  • How to Measure the Success of Implemented Solutions
  • Using Feedback and Continuous Improvement to Ensure Long-Term Results
  • Post-Implementation Reviews: Learning from Success and Failure
• Activity: Hands-on Exercise – Creating an Action Plan for Solution Implementation and Monitoring

Day 5: Leadership, Communication, and Managing Team Dynamics in Problem-Solving

• Session 1: Leading Teams Through Problems
  • Leadership Styles for Problem-Solving: Directing, Coaching, Supporting, and Delegating
  • Building a Problem-Solving Culture: Encouraging Innovation and Proactivity
  • Effective Communication in Problem-Solving: Ensuring Clear, Concise, and Transparent Messaging
• Session 2: Managing Team Dynamics and Collaboration
  • Roles and Responsibilities in Problem-Solving: How to Utilize Each Team Member’s Strengths
  • Managing Conflicts and Differences of Opinion During Problem-Solving
  • Facilitating Productive Discussions and Group Problem-Solving Sessions
• Session 3: Continuous Improvement and Preventing Future Problems
  • Creating a Continuous Improvement Mindset: After Action Reviews (AARs) and Lessons Learned
  • Preventing Recurring Issues: Implementing Process Changes and Monitoring for Future Risks
  • Strategies for Building a Resilient Team Capable of Overcoming Challenges
• Activity: Group Exercise – Managing a Complex Problem-Solving Scenario, Presenting Solutions, and Creating a Long-Term Plan for Future Prevention

Course Delivery:

• Interactive Lectures: Detailed presentations that cover essential problem-solving strategies and techniques.
• Hands-on Exercises: Practical exercises to develop real-world problem-solving skills.
• Case Studies: In-depth case studies of common project management issues and their solutions.
• Workshops and Group Activities: Collaborative activities designed to simulate real project management challenges.
• Role-Playing: Practice scenarios that help improve communication, leadership, and team dynamics during problem-solving.