What are the best strategies for identifying areas of improvement in CPS conflict resolution outcomes?
Creative problem solving (CPS) is a skill that can help you overcome challenges and conflicts in various situations. However, not every CPS process leads to a satisfactory outcome. Sometimes, you may face unexpected obstacles, misunderstandings, or disagreements that prevent you from reaching your goals. How can you identify areas of improvement in your CPS conflict resolution outcomes and learn from your mistakes?
The first step to identifying areas of improvement is to assess the situation objectively and honestly. Ask yourself what went wrong, what went well, and what could have been done differently. Try to avoid blaming yourself or others, and focus on the facts and the feedback. You can use tools such as SWOT analysis, root cause analysis, or reflection questions to help you evaluate the situation from different perspectives.
The next step is to identify the gaps between your expected and actual outcomes. What were the differences in terms of quality, time, cost, or satisfaction? How did these differences affect your relationship with the stakeholders, such as clients, partners, or team members? How did they impact your reputation, credibility, or confidence? You can use tools such as gap analysis, SMART goals, or performance indicators to help you measure and compare the outcomes.
The third step is to find the causes of the gaps and the problems. What were the factors that contributed to the discrepancies? Were they internal or external, controllable or uncontrollable, predictable or unpredictable? How did they influence your decisions, actions, or reactions? You can use tools such as fishbone diagram, 5 whys, or brainstorming to help you explore and identify the causes.
The fourth step is to generate the solutions that can address the causes and close the gaps. What are the possible ways to prevent, reduce, or eliminate the problems? What are the benefits and drawbacks of each option? How feasible, effective, or desirable are they? You can use tools such as SCAMPER, six thinking hats, or mind mapping to help you generate and evaluate the solutions.
The final step is to implement the changes that can improve your CPS conflict resolution outcomes. What are the steps, resources, and timelines required to execute the solutions? What are the risks, challenges, or barriers that you may encounter? How will you monitor, review, or adjust the progress and the results? You can use tools such as action plan, Gantt chart, or PDCA cycle to help you implement and control the changes.
By following these steps, you can identify areas of improvement in your CPS conflict resolution outcomes and learn from your experiences. You can also apply these steps to other aspects of your CPS process, such as defining the problem, generating ideas, or selecting solutions. By doing so, you can enhance your CPS skill and achieve better results in the future.
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