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Problem solving vs decision making – what is the difference?
Written by Changeboard team
Published 30 Jul 2019
30 Jul 2019 • by Changeboard team
The key difference between problem solving and decision making is that solving problems is a process, whereas making decisions is an action based on insights derived during the problem-solving process. Many people use the terms problem solving and decision making interchangeably, but they are not the same.
Problem solving vs decision making
Problem solving is an analytical process used to identify the possible solutions to the situation at hand. Making decisions is a part of problem solving. Problem solving is a complex process, and judgement calls – or decisions – will have to be made on the way.
Decision making is a choice made by using one’s judgement. The art of making sound decisions is a particularly important skill for leaders and managers. You may need to make numerous decisions as part of the problem-solving process. And, of course, leaders and managers will need to use their decision-making skills to determine which solution to pursue. They will also typically need to confirm and set into motion next steps to fix the problem.
Problem solving or decision making – which is most important?
Both problem solving and decision making go hand in hand, but success in one doesn’t automatically lead to the other. Those in leadership and management roles need to understand the difference between the two and aim to make lifelong improvements in both skillsets.
Decisions are made when multiple opportunities for action present themselves. You can make decisions, yet never solve the problem.
You can be adept at problem solving, or finding the root of an issue, and still lack the decision making skills to choose and action viable next steps to bring about a successful outcome.
Quick decisions don’t always lead to best-case solutions. A purist approach to problem solving doesn’t take into account that sometimes a business needs to make the best decision under the existing circumstances (where budget, time and resource constraints might play a factor).
How does problem solving involve decision making?
Decision-making is part of the problem-solving process. A business may have multiple problems that all demand time and resource. A key role in management and leadership positions is deciding which problem to treat as a priority.
Decision making in 3 steps:
- Use problem solving to identify potential solutions – this may involve decision making, such as deciding to hold meetings with stakeholders or assigning team members to tackle particular areas of the problem
- Determine which solution is the best fit for the problem at hand
- Make a decision on next steps to action the chosen solution
The similarities between problem solving and decision making
Problem solving and decision making are not synonymous with each other, but they are both important skills for leaders to have. People often use the terms problem solving and decision making interchangeably specifically because they have elements in common.
Both problem solving and decision making involve critical thinking.
Critical thinking is a process by which you question your own assumptions – as well as those of others - in order to decide on next steps to solve a problem. Critical thinking often results in using a mix of research, analysis, questioning and exploration of new ideas in order to gain rich insight into a situation, becoming informed in a way that isn’t restricted by the subjective perspectives of peers or the status quo.
See our critical thinking tips for HR managers and leaders for a deep dive into critical thinking, or take an eagle’s eye view with our 3 golden tips on how to improve your critical thinking .
How to use decision making in solving problems
It all boils down to one thing: When faced with a challenge, break the problem down into manageable components that require decisions to be made.
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By Changeboard team Published: 30 Jul 2019
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Decision-making and Problem-solving
Appreciate the complexities involved in decision-making & problem solving.
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A 5-Step Problem-Solving Strategy
Specify the problem – a first step to solving a problem is to identify it as specifically as possible. It involves evaluating the present state and determining how it differs from the goal state.
Analyze the problem – analyzing the problem involves learning as much as you can about it. It may be necessary to look beyond the obvious, surface situation, to stretch your imagination and reach for more creative options.
seek other perspectives
be flexible in your analysis
consider various strands of impact
brainstorm about all possibilities and implications
research problems for which you lack complete information. Get help.
Formulate possible solutions – identify a wide range of possible solutions.
try to think of all possible solutions
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consider similar problems and how you have solved them
Evaluate possible solutions – weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each solution. Think through each solution and consider how, when, and where you could accomplish each. Consider both immediate and long-term results. Mapping your solutions can be helpful at this stage.
Choose a solution – consider 3 factors:
compatibility with your priorities
amount of risk
practicality
Keys to Problem Solving
Think aloud – problem solving is a cognitive, mental process. Thinking aloud or talking yourself through the steps of problem solving is useful. Hearing yourself think can facilitate the process.
Allow time for ideas to "gel" or consolidate. If time permits, give yourself time for solutions to develop. Distance from a problem can allow you to clear your mind and get a new perspective.
Talk about the problem – describing the problem to someone else and talking about it can often make a problem become more clear and defined so that a new solution will surface.
Decision Making Strategies
Decision making is a process of identifying and evaluating choices. We make numerous decisions every day and our decisions may range from routine, every-day types of decisions to those decisions which will have far reaching impacts. The types of decisions we make are routine, impulsive, and reasoned. Deciding what to eat for breakfast is a routine decision; deciding to do or buy something at the last minute is considered an impulsive decision; and choosing your college major is, hopefully, a reasoned decision. College coursework often requires you to make the latter, or reasoned decisions.
Decision making has much in common with problem solving. In problem solving you identify and evaluate solution paths; in decision making you make a similar discovery and evaluation of alternatives. The crux of decision making, then, is the careful identification and evaluation of alternatives. As you weigh alternatives, use the following suggestions:
Consider the outcome each is likely to produce, in both the short term and the long term.
Compare alternatives based on how easily you can accomplish each.
Evaluate possible negative side effects each may produce.
Consider the risk involved in each.
Be creative, original; don't eliminate alternatives because you have not heard or used them before.
An important part of decision making is to predict both short-term and long-term outcomes for each alternative. You may find that while an alternative seems most desirable at the present, it may pose problems or complications over a longer time period.
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The Difference Between Problem Solving and Decision Making
Decision making and problem solving are two related but different skill sets that apply to distinct business challenges. Sometimes leaders use decision-making techniques when they should be using a problem-solving approach, and vice versa. Knowing the difference between problem solving and decision making and understanding which skill to utilize in a particular situation will help you overcome challenges more quickly.
Seeking a Solution, or Choosing Between Options?
Both decision making and problem solving use information to inform a certain action, but that’s where the similarities end. Problem solving is the process of finding a solution to an ongoing, intermittent, or one-time failure of a process or system to perform at an acceptable level — or perform at all. It consists of identifying the causes through asking basic questions like “where,” “how,” “who,” and “why” to find the solution. Decision making involves choosing between different courses of action by evaluating each based on a set of criteria. It requires implementing an action plan based on what you have learned from problem solving.
A helpful way to illustrate the difference between problem solving and decision making is to consider the difference between a detective and a judge. As anyone who has seen an episode of Law & Order knows, a detective is a problem-solver. Their role is to determine who committed the crime based on evidence. A judge is a decision-maker. They weigh evidence, circumstances, and precedent to arrive at a judgment.
Understanding Differences in Processes and Outcomes
The process of decision making is clear: each option is evaluated based on a set of parameters or criteria. But the outcome is uncertain until a specific decision is made and time tells how well it worked — or didn’t work.
The process of problem solving is not immediately clear. Initially you might not understand the root of the problem, which makes it difficult to know where to start. For example, you can see that the conveyor belt in your warehouse isn’t working, but what made the motor controlling it stop working remains a mystery until you diagnose the problem, system by system. Once the problem is determined and addressed, the outcome is clear: the conveyor belt is again working.
In business, typical problems could be:
- Customer churn is increasing. Solution: expand product offering.
- The organization’s carbon footprint is too big and costly. Solution: implement green initiatives.
- A team is struggling to keep up with leads and organize customer data. Solution: implement a customer relationship management [CRM] system.
The associated complex decisions would be:
- Determining what new product to launch
- Selecting the green strategies that best balance cost and effectiveness
- Identifying which CRM solution is right for your organization
Problem solving and Decision Making: Best Practices
Whether problem solving or decision making, there are some factors you should consider to make the process as successful and efficient as possible. When problem solving, make sure to gather as many facts as you can, which will help make the solution more obvious. For example, app development companies will often take a “ test and learn ” approach to determine what customers want and need in an app. They’ll create a beta version, provide it free-of-charge to customers, and then analyze that data to develop a paid app that meets customer needs.
When making decisions, be action-oriented. This means that you should be able to act on your decisions. Many of your decisions, especially those concerning complex issues, should involve other key employees and subject matter experts for the best results. Gather a team with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to help you consider a wide range of options. Be open to feedback; even the most carefully made decision may not work out as expected when implemented. And lastly, you should adopt a decision-making framework that enables you to make the best decisions possible on a consistent basis, in a variety of scenarios.
- Ken Thompson
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5 thoughts on “the difference between problem solving and decision making”.
Hi Ken. Problem solving is a skill based on creativity and the ability to see things from many points of view. Decision making in particular requires the ability to manage emotions and a strong sense of responsibility. These are two very important skills in every area and in great demand at work. In the business environment, every good leader should be provided with them to perform at his best in his role.
Thank you for the insight. Agreed – creativity is key for problem solving. Thank you again for visiting the blog, and if you’re interested in learning more on the topic, you might find our Complex Decision Making for Leaders guide helpful. https://alignorg.com/guide/complex-decision-making-for-leaders/
I need help about the similarities of problem solving and decision making
We have an Executive Guide that might help you. You can find it here: https://alignorg.com/guide/complex-decision-making-for-leaders/ .
Every problem solving procedure is made of at least one process of divergent and convergent thinking. In the first part after determining the problem we should look for many many possible solutions in hand (which is one of the many many definitions of creativity). This is the divergent part of thinking (one to many). After having the options in hand, we encounter the second obstacle, i.e. looking for the best option from the many. This second part needs some convergent thinking and decision making skills (many to one). Then, I think the decision making in many cases is a part of problem solving procedure.
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Organization and Self-Management
22 Effective Problem Solving and Decision Making
Types of decision makers.
Problem solving and decision making belong together. You cannot solve a problem without making a decision. There are two main types of decision makers. Some people use a systematic, rational approach. Others are more intuitive. They go with their emotions or a gut feeling about the right approach. They may have highly creative ways to address the problem, but cannot explain why they have chosen this approach.
Six Problem-Solving Steps
The most effective method uses both rational and intuitive or creative approaches. There are six steps in the process:
Identify the problem
Search for alternatives, weigh the alternatives, make a choice.
- Implement the choice
- Evaluate the results and, if necessary, start the process again
To solve a problem, you must first determine what the problem actually is. You may think you know, but you need to check it out. Sometimes, it is easy to focus on symptoms, not causes. You use a rational approach to determine what the problem is. The questions you might ask include:
- What have I (or others) observed?
- What was I (or others) doing at the time the problem occurred?
- Is this a problem in itself or a symptom of a deeper, underlying problem?
- What information do I need?
- What have we already tried to address this problem?
For example, the apprentice you supervise comes to you saying that the electric warming oven is not working properly. Before you call a repair technician, you may want to ask a few questions. You may want to find out what the apprentice means by “not working properly.” Does he or she know how to operate the equipment? Did he or she check that the equipment was plugged in? Was the fuse or circuit breaker checked? When did it last work?
You may be able to avoid an expensive service call. At the very least, you will be able to provide valuable information to the repair technician that aids in the troubleshooting process.
Of course, many of the problems that you will face in the kitchen are much more complex than a malfunctioning oven. You may have to deal with problems such as:
- Discrepancies between actual and expected food costs
- Labour costs that have to be reduced
- Lack of budget to complete needed renovations in the kitchen
- Disputes between staff
However, the basic problem-solving process remains the same even if the problems identified differ. In fact, the more complex the problem is, the more important it is to be methodical in your problem-solving approach.
It may seem obvious what you have to do to address the problem. Occasionally, this is true, but most times, it is important to identify possible alternatives. This is where the creative side of problem solving really comes in.
Brainstorming with a group can be an excellent tool for identifying potential alternatives. Think of as many possibilities as possible. Write down these ideas, even if they seem somewhat zany or offbeat on first impression. Sometimes really silly ideas can contain the germ of a superb solution. Too often, people move too quickly into making a choice without really considering all of the options. Spending more time searching for alternatives and weighing their consequences can really pay off.
Once a number of ideas have been generated, you need to assess each of them to see how effective they might be in addressing the problem. Consider the following factors:
- Impact on the organization
- Effect on public relations
- Impact on employees and organizational climate
- Ethics of actions
- Whether this course is permitted under collective agreements
- Whether this idea can be used to build on another idea
Some individuals and groups avoid making decisions. Not making a decision is in itself a decision. By postponing a decision, you may eliminate a number of options and alternatives. You lose control over the situation. In some cases, a problem can escalate if it is not dealt with promptly. For example, if you do not handle customer complaints promptly, the customer is likely to become even more annoyed. You will have to work much harder to get a satisfactory solution.
Implement the decision
Once you have made a decision, it must be implemented. With major decisions, this may involve detailed planning to ensure that all parts of the operation are informed of their part in the change. The kitchen may need a redesign and new equipment. Employees may need additional training. You may have to plan for a short-term closure while the necessary changes are being made. You will have to inform your customers of the closure.
Evaluate the outcome
Whenever you have implemented a decision, you need to evaluate the results. The outcomes may give valuable advice about the decision-making process, the appropriateness of the choice, and the implementation process itself. This information will be useful in improving the company’s response the next time a similar decision has to be made.
Creative Thinking
Your creative side is most useful in identifying new or unusual alternatives. Too often, you can get stuck in a pattern of thinking that has been successful in the past. You think of ways that you have handled similar problems in the past. Sometimes this is successful, but when you are faced with a new problem or when your solutions have failed, you may find it difficult to generate new ideas.
If you have a problem that seems to have no solution, try these ideas to “unfreeze” your mind:
- Relax before trying to identify alternatives.
- Play “what if” games with the problem. For example, What if money was no object? What if we could organize a festival? What if we could change winter into summer?
- Borrow ideas from other places and companies. Trade magazines might be useful in identifying approaches used by other companies.
- Give yourself permission to think of ideas that seem foolish or that appear to break the rules. For example, new recipes may come about because someone thought of new ways to combine foods. Sometimes these new combinations appear to break rules about complementary tastes or break boundaries between cuisines from different parts of the world. The results of such thinking include the combined bar and laundromat and the coffee places with Internet access for customers.
- Use random inputs to generate new ideas. For example, walk through the local shopping mall trying to find ways to apply everything you see to the problem.
- Turn the problem upside down. Can the problem be seen as an opportunity? For example, the road outside your restaurant that is the only means of accessing your parking lot is being closed due to a bicycle race. Perhaps you could see the bicycle race as an opportunity for business rather than as a problem.
Working in the Food Service Industry by The BC Cook Articulation Committee is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.
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Problem Solving and Decision Making
Problem-solving and decision-making are important skills for business and life.
Problem-solving often involves decision-making, and decision making is especially important for management and leadership.
There are processes and techniques to improve decision making and the quality of decisions.
Decision making is more natural to certain personalities, so these people should focus more on improving the quality of their decisions.
People that are less natural decision-makers are often able to make quality assessments, but then need to be more decisive in acting upon the assessments made.
Problem-solving and decision making are closely linked, and each requires creativity in identifying and developing options, for which the brainstorming technique is particularly useful.
See also the free SWOT analysis template and examples , and PEST analysis template , which help decision-making and problem-solving.
SWOT analysis helps assess the strength of a company, a business proposition or idea; PEST analysis helps to assess the potential and suitability of a market.
Good decision making requires a mixture of skills: creative development and identification of options, clarity of judgement, firmness of decision, and effective implementation.
For group problem-solving and decision making, or when a consensus is required, workshops help, within which you can incorporate these tools and processes as appropriate.
Here are some useful methods for effective decision making and problem-solving: First a simple step-by-step process for effective decision making and problem-solving.
And definitely see the ethical decision-making quick guide.
Decision-Making process
- Define and clarify the issue - does it warrant action? If so, now? Is the matter urgent, important or both? See the Pareto Principle.
- Gather all the facts and understand their causes.
- Think about or brainstorm possible options and solutions (See brainstorming process).
- Consider and compare the 'pros and cons' of each option - consult others if necessary or useful - and for bigger complex decisions where there are several options, create a template that enables measurements according to different strategic factors (see SWOT , PEST , Porter ).
- Select the best option - avoid vagueness and weak compromises in trying to please everyone.
- Explain your decision to those involved and affected, and follow up to ensure proper and effective implementation.
Decision-making maxims will help to reinforce the above decision-making process whether related to problem-solving or not, for example:
"We know what happens to people who stay in the middle of the road. They get run down." - Aneurin Bevan
"In any moment of decision the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing." - attributed to Theodore Roosevelt - more maxims on the quotes page.
There is often more than one good answer when you are faced with a complex decision. When you've found the best solution you can find, involve others in making it work, and it probably will.
More useful rules, acronyms and training ideas on the acronyms page .
'Pros and Cons' and 'Weighted' Decision-Making Methods
A simple process for decision making is to compile a 'weighted' score, of a 'pros and cons' list.
For more complex decisions, several options can be assessed against differing significant criteria, or against a single set of important factors. In any case, factors/options can be weighted and scored appropriately.
The 'pros and cons' method can be used especially for two-option problem-solving and decision-making issues where implications need to be understood and a decision has to be made in a measured objective sense.
Using a 'weighted list' scoring method is especially useful in big organisational or business decisions, especially which involve lots of different strategic considerations (as in SWOT and PEST and Porter's Five Forces concept). In such situations, you can assess different options according to a single set of criteria (the most important considerations), or you can allocate weighted/scored criteria differently to each option (examples of templates are below).
Some decisions are a simple matter of whether to make a change or not, such as moving, taking a new job, buying something, selling something, replacing something, etc. Other decisions involve a number of options and are concerned more with how to do something, involving a number of choices. Use the brainstorming process to identify and develop options for decision-making and problem-solving. If involving a group in the process then running a workshop is often a good approach.
- First, you will need a separate sheet for each identified option.
- On each sheet write clearly the option concerned, and then beneath it the headings 'pros' and 'cons' (or 'advantages' and 'disadvantages', or simply 'for' and 'against'). Many decisions simply involve the choice of whether to go ahead or not, to change or not; in these cases, you need only one sheet.
- Then write down as many effects and implications of the particular option that you (and others if appropriate) can think of, placing each in the relevant column.
- If helpful 'weight' each factor, by giving it a score out of three or five points (e.g., 5 being extremely significant, and 1 being of minor significance).
- When you have listed all the points you can think of for the option concerned compare the number or total score of the items/effects/factors between the two columns.
- This will provide a reflection and indication as to the overall attractiveness and benefit of the option concerned. If you have scored each item you will actually be able to arrive at a total score, being the difference between the pros and cons column totals. The bigger the difference between the total pros and total cons then the more attractive the option is.
- If you have a number of options and have completed a pros and cons sheet for each option, compare the attractiveness - points difference between pros and cons - for each option. The biggest positive difference between pros and cons is the most attractive option.
- N.B. If you don't like the answer that the decision-making sheet(s) reflect back to you, it means you haven't included all the cons - especially the emotional ones, or you haven't scored the factors consistently, so re-visit the sheet(s) concerned.
You will find that writing things down in this way will help you to see things more clearly, and become more objective and detached, which will help you to make clearer decisions.
Using a scoring template also allows for the involvement and contribution of other people, far more objectively, controllably and usefully, than by general discussion without a measurement framework.
This first simple example below enables the weighting of the pros and cons of buying a new car to replace an old car.
The methodology is easily adapted for more complex decisions, such as in business strategy and consideration of more complex factors (notably found within other tools such as SWOT and PEST and Porter's Five Forces ).
The actual scores below are examples and are not suggested weightings of how to make such a decision, which must be your own ideas.
Decision-making criteria depend on your own personal situations and preferences. Criteria and weighting will change according to time, situation, etc.
Your own mood and feelings can also affect how you assess things, which is additional justification for the need for a measurable and robust method.
In bigger strategic business decision-making, it is often beneficial to seek input from others as to factors and weighting scores. In such situations, a template offers a way for people to contribute in a managed structured way.
The main template question can be whatever suits your purposes - it can be about timing, where, who, how, and is not necessarily restricted to two columns . The same methodology can be used to compare a series of several options.
For more complex situations, especially which entail many more rows and columns, it's sensible to use a spreadsheet.
Use whatever scoring method makes good sense to you for your situation. The example shows a low score method, but you can score each item up to 10, or 20 or 100, or an 'A/B/C' or three-star scoring method - whatever works best for you.
In the above example, on the basis of the pros and cons and the weighting applied, there seems to be a clear overall quantifiable advantage in the decision to go ahead and buy a new car.
Notice that with this decision-making method it's even possible to include 'intangible' emotional issues in the pros and cons comparison, for example 'it'll be a load off my mind', and 'decisions scare and upset me'.
A decision-making pros and cons list like this helps remove the emotion which blocks clear thinking and decision-making. It enables objectivity and measurement, rather than reacting from instinct, or avoiding the issue altogether. Objective measurement helps in making a confident decision.
The total weighted scores are the main deciding factor rather than the total number of pros and cons, although there is not a scientific 'right' or 'wrong' way to consider the total number of pros and cons compared with the total weighted scores.
If the weighted scores are indicating a decision which makes you feel uncomfortable, then check your weightings, and also check that you've not missed out on any factors on either side of the table.
If the decision makes you feel uncomfortable and this is not reflected in the table, then add it as a factor and give it a score.
Seeking feedback or input from a trusted neutral friend can be helpful in confirming your factors and their scores.
You should be able to cut and paste this template into a text editor or spreadsheet. Add more rows or columns as required.
For more complex decisions, especially strategic/organisational, the sub-headings 'pros' and 'cons' should be replaced by the names of the different options.
Refer to other tools such as SWOT and PEST and Porter's Five Forces as appropriate.
Note: The above methods are similar to - but not the same as - 'Force Field Analysis', an analytical theory developed by psychologist Kurt Lewin (1890-1947), originally to assess factors influencing group behaviour.
The Lewin model is typically shown as a simplified diagram, with horizontal arrows alongside each factor pointing to the space between the columns. Explained above is a different and logically developed weighted decision-making method, not Lewin's Force Field Analysis.
Here's a three-option template example:
This approach enables different criteria to be allocated to each option and weighted accordingly.
Here's a three-option template which enables weighting/scoring across a single set of criteria:
Complex Problems and Decisions - Tips
For complex decisions and problems involving more than two possible options, you can use a template with additional columns, in which case each column represents a different option, and the rows enable scoring according to the different weighted strategic considerations.
Or establish a single set of criteria across which to score several different options.
So, in using more than one or two columns you can assess options according to:
- differing weighted criteria for each of the options, or
- a single set of criteria.
Choose the method(s) which offer you the easiest approach, given the types of options available, and whether you are involving other people in the process.
Where a team of people, or different departments, are involved in the decision-making for lots of options/variations within a big complex situation, it can be useful to delegate the formulation of different two-column 'pros and cons' templates to different teams/people, and this can be a powerful aid to subsequent group discussions. This enables options to be eliminated and filtered and a shortlist of fewer options to be established.
In complex situations the wording of the options is important, for example, if considering the best path for one's own career and work development the options might be:
- be employed, working for a big company
- be self-employed, working as a consultant or freelancer from home
- start a business, with premises and staff
A situation like this can be approached by completing three separate pros and cons tables and then comparing the net effects (difference between weighted pros and cons) of each one, or by completing one three-column template and scoring the main considerations across all three options.
Here's an example of a three-option organisational decision:
- develop a range of industrial cleaning products
- develop a range of industrial cleaning services
- develop a network of distributors for industrial cleaning products and services
Criteria for weighting/scoring and thereby comparing the above three strategic options might typically include factors such as:
- investment/costs required
- profitability (gross margin, financial contribution, etc)
- overhead use/demand
- competitive advantage
- ease of market access
- training needs
- speed, etc, etc
In both of the above examples, the scoring criteria can be more precisely and relevantly established with the aid of other tools like SWOT and PEST and Porter's Five Forces .
Also consider that some decisions and challenges are difficult because you don't have the necessary knowledge or experience, in which case you need first to decide if the decision or challenge is actually appropriate and necessary for you at this stage.
If you don't have the necessary knowledge or experience to compile a decision-making template, then you are not in a good position to make the decision, and you need to bring in the necessary knowledge and experience.
Some decisions have to be made when you are not ready, in which case it is all the more important to be as measured as you can be, rather than resort purely to instinct.
Other decisions may seem urgent and necessary, but actually - if you probe and challenge the situation - might not actually be necessary at all.
Do not be forced into a decision if having considered the implications carefully you decide that it's not the best thing to do. The decision to do nothing is often a perfectly good option.
Whatever you do - try to be as objective and measured as you can be, and where it's appropriate or necessary, definitely seek input from others.
Well-prepared decisions are easier to make and implement and generally produce the best results.
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What did you eat for breakfast this morning? Did you choose cereal or a bagel? Why? Or what if you missed the bus? How did you solve this problem? Problem-solving and decision-making are skills we use all day, every day. But what is actually involved in these processes? Let's read on and find out.
In this article, we will begin by discussing the similarities and differences between problem-solving and decision-making.
Then, we'll lay out the problem-solving and decision-making steps.
As we continue, we'll look at the criteria for decision-making and problem-solving.
We will then list the types of problems in decision-making.
Finally, we'll take a look at a few examples of decision-making problems.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Similarities and Differences
Both problem-solving and decision-making are mental processes that involve the use of information to determine an action. Both require identification and evaluation. Decision-making may be part of problem-solving and problem-solving may be part of decision-making.
However problem-solving and decision-making have noticeable differences.
Problem-solving means that a person is trying to find a solution to a problem, whether it's ongoing, intermittent, or a one-time failure.
Decision-making, on the other hand, requires a person to make choices or to choose between options (or not).
Decision-making is also usually clearer at the start than problem-solving. When making a decision the choices are often quite clear and clearly presented. But with problem-solving, the biggest part of the battle might be identifying what the problem itself is.
A detective must solve the problem by solving a case. A judge must make decisions such as determining bail, sentencing, and other trial procedures.
Also, the process of problem-solving and decision-making can look different in the brain. The point at which you find a solution to a problem can often feel like a lightbulb going off in your head. In some ways, that is similar to what occurs in the brain.
Research shows that the frontal lobe (responsible for focusing attention) is most active while a person is trying to solve a problem. But once they have found the solution, suddenly, there is a burst of activity in the right temporal lobe (Myers, 2014). Making a decision, however, is usually a much more gradual process.
Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Steps
Problem-solving and decision-making steps can look very similar. However, to go about them the same exact way would be an incorrect approach. Let's take a look at the specific steps in problem-solving and decision-making.
Problem-Solving Steps
The steps are: specify the problem, analyze the problem, formulate solutions, evaluate solutions, choose a solution, and evaluate the outcome.
1. Specify the Problem
As mentioned earlier, one of the most challenging steps in problem-solving is identifying what the problem is in the first place. A good way to start is to determine what the goal state is and how it differs from the present state.
2. Analyze the Problem
What are the potential causes of the problem? What does the presentation of this problem mean for the situation? Try to research the problem as much as possible and collect as much information as you can.
3. Formulate Solutions
Begin formulating solutions. but don't feel pressured to know exactly what to do at this stage – simply brainstorm as many solutions as possible and be creative. Consider other problems or situations you've faced in the past and if you can apply what you learned to this problem.
4. Evaluate Solutions
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each solution and how well it will actually solve the problem. Try to imagine the possible outcomes of each solution. Consider whether the solution solves all of the problem or only parts of it.
5. Choose a Solution
This is the "aha" moment in problem-solving. We often arrive at a solution through insight. Insight is the sudden realization of the solution to a problem. You have considered several possibilities and finally, the right one has finally clicked.
6. Evaluate the outcome
None of us are capable of finding the perfect solution to our problems 100% of the time. Sometimes you have to go back to the drawing board. Don't be discouraged! The last step to problem-solving is to evaluate the outcome of the solution. Even if it is not the outcome you expected, you have the opportunity to learn from it.
Decision-Making Steps
Decision-making may involve problem-solving – but not always. The six steps to problem-solving are as follows: specify the problem, analyze the problem, formulate solutions, evaluate possible solutions, choose a solution, and evaluate the outcome.
1. Identify the Decision or Goal
First, identify what your goal is and why you need to make a decision. Knowing why you're making a decision makes it more likely you'll stick with it and defend it.
2. Gather Information
What information do you need to understand the situation and the decision you have to make? Reach out to people you trust and those who have a better understanding than you.
3. Identify Alternatives
Next, identify what your options are. It is important to note that when making a decision, you are not required to make a choice between the alternatives. But even not making a choice is a decision that you consciously make.
4. Weigh the Evidence
This is a great time to use a pros and cons list. Consider the impact each alternative may have and potential outcomes.
5. Choose Among Alternatives
Finally, you are ready to choose an alternative. This step may be intimidating, but considering the following questions may help you decide the best path forward:
Is this solution compatible with my priorities?
Is there any risk involved in this solution and is it worth the risk?
Is this a practical solution or would it be far too difficult or even impossible?
6. Take Action
While not always required after solving a problem, making a decision almost always requires you to take action.
You've chosen what college to go to, now you must respond to your acceptance letters and notify the schools you don't want to go to that you will not be attending.
7. Evaluate the outcome
Similar to problem-solving, it would be unrealistic for any of us to know all the information or see every perspective while making a decision. Evaluate the consequences – good or bad – of your decision and then adjust future decisions accordingly.
Criteria for Decision-Making and Problem-Solving
The criteria for decision-making and problem-solving include abstract thinking and reasoning and the ability to use decision-making and problem-solving methods.
Abstract Thinking and Reasoning
To make decisions, a person should at least have the capacity to weigh various options . Young children might not be able to grasp abstract thinking and reasoning, as this skill doesn't develop until adolescence .
If you ask a toddler what they want for lunch, it's best to give them only a couple of options, like chicken nuggets or Mac-n-cheese.
Leaving their options wide open or giving them too many options will probably lead to them saying no or choosing something they don't actually want and guaranteeing a tantrum later.
The same could be said for problem-solving: a person must have the capacity to think of as many solutions as possible which requires abstract thinking and reasoning. One should be able to recognize a problem and determine its significance.
Decision-Making and Problem-Solving Methods
Many times when solving a problem, our strategy is to just do trial and error. Try one solution, if it doesn't work, try another, and another, and another until the problem is solved. Or we may use other techniques to solve a problem. For example, we may try to solve a problem using whatever method we know will guarantee the correct solution or algorithm .
Algorithms are logical rules or procedures that are guaranteed to generate the correct solution to a problem.
Algorithms are most often used in mathematics or chemistry because if you know how to use a formula correctly, you will always get the correct answer. This may be an effective way to solve some problems, but it can be time-consuming.
You are asked to figure out what word can be formed using the following letters: YSCPOGLHOY. You could use an algorithm by finding all the thousands of possible combinations until you land on the correct word. However, this would take far too long.
An alternative method to solve the problem is to use the same methods or information we used to solve similar problems. This is called heuristics .
Heuristics are shortcuts we use that allow us to solve problems and make judgments efficiently.
Types of Problems in Decision-Making
Most of the decisions we make day-to-day require very little time and effort. We follow our intuition to decide which way to take home based on traffic or make snap judgments when deciding which candy to take from the candy jar. Using shortcuts such as heuristics saves us time but without much conscious awareness. This will inevitably lead to errors. Let's take a look at the problems in decision-making including confirmation bias , representative heuristic, availability heuristic , and overconfidence.
Problems in Decision-making
Confirmation bias.
Throughout life, we all begin to form concrete ideas and beliefs. When we are more eager to seek evidence in favor of our ideas or beliefs than against them, this is called confirmation bias. This is a consequence of fixation (inability to see other perspectives) and mental set (solving problems the way we've solved similar ones before).
Representativeness Heuristic
We all build prototypes (mental image) of people, places, and things in our world. Our brains form prototypes to understand and categorize our world, but we get into trouble when we believe our prototypes are always true. The representativeness heuristic is when we estimate the likelihood of an event based on whether or not it fits the prototypes we have formed of people, places, things, or events.
A person walks into the store with leather pants, a leather jacket, and tattoos all over. Are they more likely to be a biker or a school teacher? If you answered a biker, then you are using your prototype of what a biker looks like to make your decision, rather than using the base rate. It's more likely that person is a teacher because there are far more teachers in the world than bikers.
Availability Heuristic
We may also fall victim to the availability heuristic while making decisions. The availability heuristic is when we estimate the likelihood of events based on how available they are in our memory or how vivid similar events occurred previously. The availability heuristic can lead to us placing our fear in the wrong places. It is far more likely for a person to die from heart disease than a shark attack but we are much more afraid of sharks than we are of unhealthy foods like donuts.
Overconfidence
Confidence is not a bad thing. People who have a lot of self-confidence usually live happily, make tough decisions easily, and seem competent. But when we are too confident in the accuracy of our beliefs and judgments, it may lead to errors. In fact, people who are overconfident are usually more likely to be wrong. Stockbrokers often fall victim to this when they are sure they can outsmart the stock market, and go all-in on a stock only to lose everything. However, if we get clear feedback and actually receive it, we may be able to avoid the pitfalls of overconfidence.
Decision-Making Problems: Examples
The representativeness heuristic can easily lead to stereotypes and discrimination . Following 9/11, Arab Americans often faced discrimination because people began to form a prototype (really a stereotype) of what terrorists looked like. For example, Arab Americans might have experienced more strenuous security checks at the airport.
Even though almost all Arab-Americans are peace-loving people, many began to assume if they looked the part they were "more likely" to be terrorists. This still continues today. White supremacy groups have been responsible for more terrorist attacks in America than any other organization according to the New York Times (2020) , yet many people still feel more threatened by a man in a turban than a white man.
Problem Solving and Decision Making - Key takeaways
- Problem-solving means that a person is trying to find a solution to a problem, whether it's ongoing, intermittent, or a one-time failure. Decision-making, on the other hand, requires a person to make choices or to choose between options (or not).
- The six steps to problem-solving are as follows: specify the problem, analyze the problem, formulate solutions, evaluate possible solutions, choose a solution, and evaluate the outcome.
- To make decisions and problem-solve, a person should at least have the capacity to weigh various options . Young children might not be able to grasp abstract thinking and reasoning as this skill doesn't develop until adolescence .
- Let's take a look at the problems in decision-making including confirmation bias , representative heuristic, availability heuristic , and overconfidence.
- The representativeness heuristic can easily lead to stereotypes and discrimination . Following 9/11, Arab-Americans often faced discrimination because people began to form a prototype (really a stereotype) of what terrorists looked like.
- Myers, D. G. Myers' Psychology for AP. Worth Publishers. 2014.
Frequently Asked Questions about Problem Solving and Decision Making
--> what is problem solving and decision making.
Problem-solving means that a person is trying to find a solution to a problem, whether it's ongoing, intermittent, or a one-time failure.
--> What is the difference between problem-solving and decision-making?
Problem-solving might not require action while decision-making almost always requires an action to follow.
--> What process involves influencing group problem solving and decision making?
The process of group problem-solving and decision-making should involve defining the problem, determining the cause, developing alternatives, assessing the consequences, and developing an action plan.
--> Why are decision making and problem-solving important?
Decision-making and problem-solving are important skills that can be used in all aspects of life including work, family, friends, relationships, and learning.
--> What are the steps in problem-solving and decision-making?
Problem-solving and decision-making involves the following:
1. Identify the decision or problem
2. Gathering information or analyzing the problem
3. Finding solutions or considering alternatives,
4. Choose a solution or choice
5. Evaluate the outcome
Final Problem Solving and Decision Making Quiz
True or False? Decision-making is also usually clearer at the start than problem-solving.
Show answer
Show question
How does problem-solving resemble a light bulb going off in the brain?
Research shows that the frontal lobe (responsible for focusing attention) is most active while a person is trying to solve a problem. But once they have found the solution, suddenly, there is a burst of activity in the right temporal lobe (Myers, 2014.).
What is the first step of problem-solving?
Specify the problem
__________ are logical rules or procedures that are guaranteed to generate the correct solution to a problem.
What are heuristics?
Heuristics are shortcuts we use that allow us to solve problems and make judgments efficiently.
Consider the following letters: YSCPOGLHOY. What problem-solving method should you use to figure out what word the letters form?
When we are more eager to seek evidence in favor of our ideas or beliefs than against them, this is called _____________.
confirmation bias
The ______________ is when we estimate the likelihood of an event based on whether or not it fits the prototypes we have formed of people, places, things, or events.
representativeness heuristic
_______________ is when we estimate the likelihood of events based on how available they are in our memory or how vivid similar events occurred previously.
Availability heuristic
A person walks into the store with leather pants, a leather jacket, and tattoos all over. Are they more likely to be a biker or a school teacher? If a person assumed the person that walked in is a biker, they are using what type of decision-making problem?
Representativeness heuristic
True or False? When we are too confident in the accuracy of our beliefs and judgments, it may lead to errors.
True or False? The representativeness heuristic rarely leads to stereotypes and discrimination.
True or False? We usually develop strong problem-solving and decision-making skills during early childhood.
Why is it best to give a toddler only a couple of options for lunch rather than broadly asking them to decide what they want to eat?
Young children might not be able to grasp abstract thinking and reasoning as this skill doesn't develop until adolescence.
What are three questions you could ask yourself while choosing among the alternatives in decision-making?
Is this a practical solution or would it be far too difficult and even impossible?
When does problem-solving happen?
When a person is trying to find a solution to a problem, whether it's ongoing, intermittent, or a one-time failure
When does decision-making happen?
When a person has to choose between options (or not)
What similarities do problem-solving and decision-making share?
Identification and evaluation
Which has a more gradual increase of brain activity?
Decision-making
What is the correct order of steps when problem-solving?
Specify the problem, analyze the problem, formulate solutions, evaluate solutions, choose a solution, evaluate the outcome
Why is evaluating the outcome an important step in problem-solving?
It allows you to go back and make sure you found the right answer. If not, this gives you an opportunity to try to find another answer.
Why is identifying alternatives an important step in decision-making?
You fully understand all the options you are choosing between
Why is gathering information an important step in the decision-making process?
You need to get more information in order to be knowledgable when making your decision
Can a child make decisions?
Yes, but not well-thought out ones. Abstract thinking and reasoning are important steps in decision-making which are qualities that children are still developing.
What is a beneficial attribute about an algorithm?
It will get you the right answer, guaranteed
What is something bad about the use of an algorithm?
It can be very time-consuming
What is a beneficial attribute of heuristics?
It can help you use mental shortcuts to get to the answer quicker
What is a negative attribute of heuristics?
You won't always get the right answer
Why is confirmation bias a problem in decision-making?
It causes us to see things a certain way (the way we want them to) and will find people or sources that will agree with what we believe, swaying our decision
Why is overconfidence a problem when it comes to decision-making?
Someone who is overconfident is more likely to make the wrong decision
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Feb 8, 2020
Problem solving vs decision making – what is the difference?
The key difference between problem solving and decision making is that solving problems is a process, whereas making decisions is an action based on insights derived during the problem-solving process. Many people use the terms problem solving and decision making interchangeably, but they are not the same.
Problem solving vs decision making
Problem solving is an analytical process used to identify the possible solutions to the situation at hand. Making decisions is a part of problem solving. Problem solving is a complex process, and judgement calls – or decisions – will have to be made on the way.
Decision making is a choice made by using one’s judgement. The art of making sound decisions is a particularly important skill for leaders and managers. You may need to make numerous decisions as part of the problem-solving process. And, of course, leaders and managers will need to use their decision-making skills to determine which solution to pursue. They will also typically need to confirm and set into motion next steps to fix the problem.
Problem solving or decision making – which is most important?
Both problem solving and decision making go hand in hand, but success in one doesn’t automatically lead to the other. Those in leadership and management roles need to understand the difference between the two and aim to make lifelong improvements in both skillsets.
Decisions are made when multiple opportunities for action present themselves. You can make decisions, yet never solve the problem.
You can be adept at problem solving, or finding the root of an issue, and still lack the decision making skills to choose and action viable next steps to bring about a successful outcome.
Quick decisions don’t always lead to best-case solutions. A purist approach to problem solving doesn’t take into account that sometimes a business needs to make the best decision under the existing circumstances (where budget, time and resource constraints might play a factor).
Decision making in 3 steps:
Use problem solving to identify potential solutions – this may involve decision making, such as deciding to hold meetings with stakeholders or assigning team members to tackle particular areas of the problem
Determine which solution is the best fit for the problem at hand
Make a decision on next steps to action the chosen solution
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Wise Decisions
Decision Making vs. Problem Solving
Decision Making vs. Problem Solving is an important distinction to make. But first, let’s be clear about what a decision is. A decision is a choice. The decision may be complicated and involve many steps and components but, at its essence, a decision is simply a choice.
Decision making and problem solving are similar in that they both seek the positive resolution of an issue. In life we are usually confronted with a problem and often it is unclear how to solve the problem. Decision making is a tool that can be used to solve a problem.
In general, problem solving takes a larger view and usually involves implementing a strategy. That strategy usually includes making one or more decisions. There is an overlap. However, it is generally deemed that decision making is a subset of problem solving.
Here is an example of the distinction:
The Problem: World Hunger
The Solution: Break the problem into small decisions to be made:
- How do we raise the money to purchase the food?
- How do we determine who will receive the food?
- How do we transport the food to the destination?
- How do we prevent corrupt officials from stealing the food?
- How do we deliver the food to the recipients?
Taken together, a series of decisions can solve most problems and rare is the problem that is not solved, at least in part, by making decisions.
The important thing to remember is that when you are confronted with a problem, look for ways to break it down into discrete decisions to be made.
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Critical Thinking and Decision-Making - What is Critical Thinking?
Critical thinking and decision-making -, what is critical thinking, critical thinking and decision-making what is critical thinking.
Critical Thinking and Decision-Making: What is Critical Thinking?
Lesson 1: what is critical thinking, what is critical thinking.
Critical thinking is a term that gets thrown around a lot. You've probably heard it used often throughout the years whether it was in school, at work, or in everyday conversation. But when you stop to think about it, what exactly is critical thinking and how do you do it ?
Watch the video below to learn more about critical thinking.
Simply put, critical thinking is the act of deliberately analyzing information so that you can make better judgements and decisions . It involves using things like logic, reasoning, and creativity, to draw conclusions and generally understand things better.
This may sound like a pretty broad definition, and that's because critical thinking is a broad skill that can be applied to so many different situations. You can use it to prepare for a job interview, manage your time better, make decisions about purchasing things, and so much more.
The process
As humans, we are constantly thinking . It's something we can't turn off. But not all of it is critical thinking. No one thinks critically 100% of the time... that would be pretty exhausting! Instead, it's an intentional process , something that we consciously use when we're presented with difficult problems or important decisions.
Improving your critical thinking
In order to become a better critical thinker, it's important to ask questions when you're presented with a problem or decision, before jumping to any conclusions. You can start with simple ones like What do I currently know? and How do I know this? These can help to give you a better idea of what you're working with and, in some cases, simplify more complex issues.
Real-world applications
Let's take a look at how we can use critical thinking to evaluate online information . Say a friend of yours posts a news article on social media and you're drawn to its headline. If you were to use your everyday automatic thinking, you might accept it as fact and move on. But if you were thinking critically, you would first analyze the available information and ask some questions :
- What's the source of this article?
- Is the headline potentially misleading?
- What are my friend's general beliefs?
- Do their beliefs inform why they might have shared this?
After analyzing all of this information, you can draw a conclusion about whether or not you think the article is trustworthy.
Critical thinking has a wide range of real-world applications . It can help you to make better decisions, become more hireable, and generally better understand the world around you.
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Problem solving is an analytical process used to identify the possible solutions to the situation at hand. Making decisions is a part of problem
Decision making has much in common with problem solving. In problem solving you identify and evaluate solution paths; in decision making you make a similar
Problem-solving is an analytical method to identify potential solutions to a situation. It's a complex process and judgment calls, or decisions
Hi Ken. Problem solving is a skill based on creativity and the ability to see things from many points of view. Decision making in particular
Six Problem-Solving Steps · Identify the problem · Search for alternatives · Weigh the alternatives · Make a choice · Implement the choice · Evaluate the results and
Problem-solving and decision making are closely linked, and each requires creativity in identifying and developing options, for which the brainstorming
Problem-solving means that a person is trying to find a solution to a problem, whether it's ongoing, intermittent, or a one-time failure. Decision-making, on
The key difference between problem solving and decision making is that solving problems is a process, whereas making decisions is an action
In general, problem solving takes a larger view and usually involves implementing a strategy. That strategy usually includes making one or more decisions. There
Simply put, critical thinking is the act of deliberately analyzing information so that you can make better judgements and decisions. It involves using