Which PSDM Method or Tool?

I’ve shared a lot of tools and methods here on Problem Solving and Decision Making. It can get confusing which tools or methods are appropriate to resolve deviations or make the right choice. Below are key questions that can help you choose which tool or method to use –

Who Cares?

It’s not worth it to involve people who won't be impacted by the problem solution or decision choice. Determine who genuinely wants to be involved along with those who will be affected. These are your candidates for involvement. Don’t involve people who don’t care.

Who Knows?

Identify who has the expertise you need to make the best decision and encourage those people to weigh in. These individuals that hold the experience and information should be surveyed to identify the major pain points that your problems or decisions will impact. Try not to involve people who won’t be able to contribute new information.

Who Must Agree?

Think of those whose cooperation you need to influence in decisions you might make or solutions you will implement. It’s better to involve these people early than to surprise them later and suffer their resistance. Getting buy-in early matters. 

How Many?

Your goal should be to involve the fewest number of people possible, while still ensuring a quality discussion of solutions or decision points from that group. Ask if you have enough people to solve the problem or make a good choice. Also, will others have to be involved to gain their commitment? Once you can answer those questions, you’ve found your team.