University of California, Irvine
Effective Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
University of California, Irvine

Effective Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

This course is part of multiple programs.

Diane Spiegel

Instructor: Diane Spiegel

285,108 already enrolled

Included with Coursera Plus

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.6

(7,473 reviews)

Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
8 hours to complete
Learn at your own pace
97%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.6

(7,473 reviews)

Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
8 hours to complete
Learn at your own pace
97%
Most learners liked this course

What you'll learn

  • Reflect on how mindset and personal bias influence your ability to solve problems and make decisions.

  • Explain how organizational decisions impact personal development, team dynamics, and company performance.

  • Analyze the affordances and limitations associated with problem-solving and decision-making.

  • Articulate how team decisions can benefit your professional growth and organizational strategy.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Assessments

4 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

 logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is available as part of
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be asked to select a specific program.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 4 modules in this course

Problem-solving is an essential skill in today's fast-paced workplace, requiring a systematic approach with effective decision-making. This course will guide you through identifying problems, generating solutions, and implementing them. In this foundational module, you'll learn to identify problems using a root cause approach and address common business problem parameters. We'll use a case scenario to illustrate each step. By the end, you'll be able to accurately define complex problems. Tip: Focus on understanding the core problem before jumping to solutions.

What's included

1 video8 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

In the previous module, you learned to identify the root cause of a problem. Now, you'll discover how mindset and personal bias can limit creative problem-solving in the workplace. This module will explore various problem-solving styles and creativity enhancement approaches to help you generate unique solutions, even with constraints. By the end, you'll be able to apply creative techniques to complex challenges. Tip: Engage actively with the brainstorming exercises to maximize your learning!

What's included

1 video6 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

After generating creative solutions in the last module, it's time to make the best decision. In this module, you will explore various decision-making styles and learn how to choose the most effective approach for different problems, considering their unique affordances and limitations. We'll also share practical tips for making better decisions and highlight common pitfalls to avoid. By the end, you'll be able to confidently select optimal solutions. Tip: Reflect on past decisions to apply new strategies effectively.

What's included

1 video5 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

Having made your decision in the previous module, it's now time to implement and assess your chosen solution. This module will guide you through reviewing situational variables that might impact implementation and defining clear performance metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure the solution's impact on your organization. You'll learn to track both quantitative and qualitative data to ensure success. By the end, you'll be able to effectively launch and evaluate solutions. Tip: Pay close attention to defining measurable outcomes for your projects.

What's included

1 video5 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructor

Instructor ratings
4.6 (1,528 ratings)
Diane Spiegel
University of California, Irvine
7 Courses403,137 learners

Offered by

Explore more from Business Essentials

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Learner reviews

4.6

7,473 reviews

  • 5 stars

    70.40%

  • 4 stars

    21.11%

  • 3 stars

    6.12%

  • 2 stars

    1.45%

  • 1 star

    0.89%

Showing 3 of 7473

EL
5

Reviewed on Dec 24, 2022

FG
4

Reviewed on Jun 3, 2022

HH
5

Reviewed on Oct 9, 2020

Coursera Plus

Open new doors with Coursera Plus

Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription

Advance your career with an online degree

Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online

Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business

Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy

Frequently asked questions