An Approach to Facilitate Problem Solving: Individualizing the Problem Proposition

Abstract

This paper addresses one of the many facets of the problem-solving activity: the challenge inherent in the problem proposition. We have identified the problem proposition as a core element in obtaining efficient problem solving. The Educational Dimension Portfolio, EDP, is our proposal for individualizing the problem proposition. This paper presents EDP's characteristics and implications through testing the results of 491 IESE Business School executives from the European Union (EU) and Latin America (LA). We enumerate five working hypotheses and show their results. We also propose an Educational Delivery Approach (EDA) to help managers become manager-educators. We present the Socratic educational process, the apprenticeship process and the providing alternatives process as a guide to become a manager-educator.

Keywords: problem solving, problem proposition, operations management, manager-educator