solving problems in Groups and teams A.2 439
As we’ve noted, some groups have found it useful to use technology to
help them generate options and possible solutions.^6 In addition to apps and col-
laborative tools, a simple method is for group members to brainstorm solutions
to a problem individually and then email their list of ideas to each other. Or the
group’s leader could collect all of the ideas, eliminate duplicate suggestions, and
then share them with the group. Research suggests that groups can generate more
ideas if group members first generate ideas individually and then collaborate.^7- Select the Best Solution
Next, the group needs to select the solution that best meets the criteria and
solves the problem. At this point, the group might need to modify its criteria or
even its definition of the problem.
Research suggests that after narrowing the list of possible solutions, the
most effective groups carefully consider the pros and the cons of each proposed
solution.^8 Groups that don’t do this tend to make poor decisions because they
haven’t carefully evaluated the implications of their solution; they haven’t
looked before they leaped.
To help in evaluating the solution, consider the following questions:
• Which of the suggested solutions deals best with the obstacles?
• Does the suggestion solve the problem in both the short term and the long
term?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of the suggested solution?
• Does the solution meet the established criteria?
• Should the group revise its criteria?
• What is required to implement the solution?
• When can the group implement the solution?
• What result will indicate success?
If the group is to reach agreement on a solution, some group members will
need to abandon their attachment to their individual ideas for the overall good
of the group. Experts who have studied how to achieve consensus—support
for the final decision by all members—suggest that summarizing frequently
and keeping the group oriented toward its goal are helpful. Emphasizing where
group members agree, clarifying misunderstandings, writing down known facts
for all members to see, and keeping the discussion focused on issues rather than
on emotions are other strategies that facilitate group consensus.^9 - Test and Implement the Solution
The group’s work is not finished when it has identified a solution. The impor-
tant questions “How can we put the solution into practice?” and “How can we
evaluate the quality of the solution?” have yet to be addressed. The group might
want to develop a step-by-step plan that describes the process for implementing
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