Problem Solving and Decision Making | DS Workforce Initiative

Core Competencies
Problem Solving and Decision Making

Core Competencies
Problem Solving and Decision Making

Problem Solving and Decision Making is the demonstration of behaviours that enable one to identify and solve problems by understanding the situation, seeking additional information, developing and weighing alternatives, and choosing the most appropriate course of action. It involves the willingness to, and demonstration of, behaviours associated with taking a creative approach to problems or issues. It includes “thinking outside of the box” to go beyond the conventional, and to explore creative use of resources.

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Growth Levels

Emerging

Uses an experience-based approach to problem solving and decision making

Uses a person directed approach to problem solving and decision making
Uses knowledge and/or experience to understand, evaluate and solve problems/issues
Identifies and defines problems
Considers both common and possible solutions (e.g., “if this, then that” thinking)
Breaks problems down into simple lists, activities, or tasks, without assigning values or priorities
Evaluates potential solutions
Decides on a solution
Acts on the solution and evaluates the outcome

Evolving

Is open to new ideas/solutions

Is open minded when presented with new perspectives from families, person supported and others
Applies new information to work through problems and situations
Recognizes when a situation calls for, or can be improved by an approach different from the usual
Identifies discrepancies, trends, and patterns
Applies past successful approaches to new situations
Uses expertise of team members and generates multiple alternative solutions
Recognizes and acts on cause-and-effect relationships (A leads to B)
Identifies options to solve a problem and considers the impact of decisions
Perseveres through the problem-solving process

Leading

Solves complex challenges

Gathers information and uses evidence based and/or best practices to assess possible solutions and outcomes
Evaluates the benefits and risks to make informed decisions
Encourages and coach’s independent problem solving with others (families, people supported)
Thinks imaginatively to develop creative solutions or options for which there are few or no precedents
Is prepared to try out different solutions, and recognizes underlying issues and implications of decisions, while always keeping the impact on people, families, and agencies in mind
Evaluates alternative solutions and identifies and acts on the optimum course of action
Recognizes that problems may be multi-dimensional, understanding less obvious implications
Solves complex problems that may involve using several analytical or creative techniques to break the problem down into component parts or issues

Influencing

Drives solutions for multi-layered challenges

Proactively identifies multi layered challenges and drives towards positive change across multiple systems
Uses a co-design approach when considering solutions to complex problems
Thoroughly examines patterns or trends across multiple systems to reach optimal decisions
Challenges or modifies existing frameworks to approach a situation from a different perspective
Examines potential implications of decisions/solutions on all affected internal and external stakeholder groups

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