A summary of problem solving concepts from Russell Ackoff.

1. Notes on
The Art of Problem Solving
by Russell L. Ackoff, 1978 Objectives
=
Desired outcomes
What the Controlled variables The relationships
Problem is decision maker about = among these 3
and
solving does Courses of action (especially causal)
Uncontrolled variables
=
The environment
A problem
can be has
Solved Resolved Dissolved 5 types of
components
=
=
Optimal choice was
1. Decision 2. Controllable 3. Uncontrolled 4. Constraints 5. Possible
selected - value of maker variables variables outcomes
outcome was maximized =
Satisficing choice was can be are are imposed from are
constitute can be
selected - good enough
outcome produced
* Individual Problem * Within Produced
Choices * Quantitative * Without
* Small group environment * Qualitative jointly
Decision maker changed self *Large group (can be chance) on ... by ...
(values or perceptions),
problem definition, or
environment changed can be
* Quantitative
* Qualitative
Karen O. Storer 2006
www.pictureitsolved.com