A problem-solving process

Purpose

To offer the coachee a systematic process for solving a problem that he or she is experiencing.

Resources

This activity will take 30 “90 minutes, depending upon the scope and depth of the problem.

Pens and paper will be required.

Notes to coach

In this activity, your role is to guide the coachee through the problem-solving process, not to solve the problem for the coachee. Your facilitation and questioning skills will support you in remaining objective, challenging the coachee to think widely and helping him or her to come up with creative solutions.

Instructions

Ask the coachee to work through the following questions relating to his or her problem:

• What exactly is the problem? What are the symptoms of the problem? How do I know the problem exists? Who and what does this problem impact upon?

• What is the cause of the problem? Are there several causes? Where did this problem first start? Who is involved? What is involved?

• What are the possible solutions to the problem? (At this point, encourage the coachee to go beyond his or her first few ideas for solutions and to be as creative as possible. )

• What will turn a possible solution into one that is acceptable and workable ? What are the criteria for an acceptable solution?

• How do my possible solutions compare to the criteria for an acceptable solution?

• Which solution will I choose? Why? How will I implement this solution? Who will I need to consult with and work with to achieve the solution? What is my timescale ? What resources will I need?

• How will I know if my solution has worked? How will I ensure that I learn from this process?

Once the coachee has worked through the questions with you, have the coachee commit his or her action plan to paper and arrange a time to meet in order to review how well the implementation of their solution went.