1. Differentiate decision making from problem solving (5 points).

Decision making is the process of choosing from among several alternatives. While problem solving, on the
other hand, involves finding the answer to a question.
Furthermore, problem solving, as the name implies, is solving a problem. Meaning, it is a method wherein a
group or an individual makes something positive out of a problem. Decision making, on the other hand, is a
process that is done many times during problem solving. It is more of a judgment where, after thinking, one will
take a course of action (DifferenceBetween.net, 2018).

2. Explain the statement “all problems require a decision but not all decisions require problem
solving.” (5 points)

The statement has two independent clauses. First, “All problems require a decision.” Yes, every problem
requires a decision. In concluding a decision, first, you must identify the problem. Second, search for
alternatives. Next, weigh the alternatives. Fourth, make a choice. Fifth, implement the choice and finally,
evaluate the results and if necessary, start the process again. Of course, some problems require more than
just these six steps but more or less, you will arrive with a sound decision if you go through the process
methodically.
If your management is currently facing a turmoil, the best thing to do is to evaluate the situation and come
up with a decision. What needs to be done must be done. Even the very fact that you ignore the problem is
already a decision. You decided to ignore it and shrug it off so most likely, the outcome of simply shrugging it
off will bug you and your management since not all decisions are a product of sound judgment.
Let’s now diagnose the second independent clause of the statement, “Not all decisions require problem
solving.” We just defined what problem solving is in number one and again, yes, not all decisions require
problem solving. How so? Let me paint you a picture. I decided to wear violet floral dress today. This definitely
doesn’t need a problem to be solved yet I came up with a decision to wear violet floral dress. In context, I
decided to give my top managers a free tour in Europe using our company high-end plane. That’s a decision I
made that does not actually require a problem to be solved.
To sum it up, in a management point of view, when you come up with a decision, it might be because
there’s a problem or there’s a goal, a need, a quest that needs to be satisfied.

3. How should a manager make every decision with ethical consideration? (4 points)

The goal, of course is for the manager to make the decision that is in best interest of the firm. Here are
some of the ways as to how managers can make every decision with ethical considerations. First, the manager
can discuss potential ethical dilemmas with colleagues to avoid unintentionally making an unethical decision.
Second, the manager must devise a compliance and ethics program that can identify the boundaries of legal
and ethical behavior and establish a system to alert management when the organization is getting close to (or
crossing) a boundary or approaching an obstacle that prevents the achievement of a business objective. This
would remind the manager how to choose whenever a dilemma arises. Finally, the manager himself/herself
must have a clear and well-defined value system. If none, he/she would be unsure on how to decide.
At the end of the day, she/he has the final say.

4. State three ways to enhance and promote creativity in the organization? (6 points)

One important method for enhancing creativity is to make it a part of the organization’s culture, often
through explicit goals. Another important part of enhancing creativity is to reward creative successes while
being careful to not punish creative failures.
Moreover, Foster an open, creative work environment. To foster creativity, some companies provide
workers with snacks, games, and “time off” during work hours. Second, motivate your team. Positive
reinforcement in the form of rewards, bonuses, special privileges, comp time, and prizes will keep people on
their toes. Third, provide the proper tools. Carpenters can’t do their jobs with hammers alone; they also need
saws, levels, planes, drills, and miter boxes. Make sure your people get the tools they need: computers,
software, education, or training (Binge, 2019).