Question

One can consider an IS and other technologies as a solution to most business challenges and problems experienced; this is one way of understanding more about information systems and often reffered to as a problem-solving approach. As an analyst you will learn more about problem-solving and create solutions to business problems, you will build great experience fo your career as an analyst. Your knowledge gained in problem- solving and information systems will be beneficial for both you and your employer.

Discuss in detail the simple four-step process model that you would use to solve problems in a business. 20 MARKS

Answer 1

The simple four step model that is used in the business for solving any particular problem is as follows:

1. Understand the Problem: The first step under this four step model would require you to understand the problem. What information and data is available around you in your business organisation, What is the problem and what it is asking us to find and what information do we need as an organisation to solve and understand the probler is the first step.

2. Make a Plan: The next step is to make a plan. Once you understood what the problem is, you would draw a mind map or picture about how the same problem would then be solved. Look for the trends and patterns and understand the solution for solving the problem. Make futuristic assumptions and predictions and also work backwards to see your past performance to make a contingent plan for further anlaysis.

3. Implement your Plan: The third step would then require you to implement the same plan you formulated in the second step. What actions you are taking to make your plan a reality comes under this. The integrative apporach of finding the right solution and implementing with the correct problem is taken out.

4. Evaluate your answer: Finally, you have implemented the right solution as per your research and decision to the problem of your organisation. Now, you have to check is your solution or answer is able to solve the problem fully or partially? Does your answer is making sense in the business environment. Was your approach correct, were you able to meet the plans and objectives set or not. Everything would be correctly evaluated under this step.