Competency: Problem Solving

Assessments Measuring Problem Solving:
Survey 1 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 2 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 3 (5-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 4 (5-point scale; radio buttons)
Survey 5 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 6 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 7 (5-point scale; competency comments; N/A)
Survey 8 (3-point scale; Agree/Disagree words; N/A)
Survey 9 (3-point scale; Strength/Development; N/A)
Survey 10 (Comment boxes only)
Survey 11 (Single rating per competency)
Survey 12 (Slide-bar scale)

Definition: Able to efficiently identify, determine cause, propose and implement solutions to solve problems in the workplace.

Analytical

Identifies and assesses all potential responses to a problem.
Solves problems using logic and insight.
Able to balance the needs of different people in a solution to a problem.
Solves problems that have difficult or conflicting constraints.
Evaluates alternative courses of action.
Analyzes systems and processes for opportunities to gain efficiency.
Solves problems that require several different criteria or constraints.
Able to meet the needs of different constituents in the solution of a problem.
Infers important trends from data.
Uses charting tools to identify patterns in data.
Compares analogous situations transferring insights to new situations.
Analyzes alternatives and selects a course of action.
Able to solve problems with multiple criteria that need to be met.
Effectively uses a variety of problem-solving/analytical approaches to address challenges within the Area.

Gets to the Root Cause

Ability to solve problems at root cause rather than at symptom level.
Actively seeks the root cause of a problem.
Understands the root causes of problems.
Solves problems at root cause rather than at symptom level.
Able to solve problems at root cause rather than at symptom level.
Is able to isolate the main problem.

Effective

Is a good problem solver and decision maker
Works cooperatively with others to solve problems.
Skilled at quickly diagnosing issues, identifying root causes, and developing and implementing effective solutions in the workplace.
Implements solutions and evaluates results.
Solves difficult problems with ease.
Links process improvement and results improvement
Assumes new and difficult challenges and manages them as opportunities.
Establishes realistic budgets consistent with strategic objectives

Seeks Data and Input

Makes judgments based upon relevant information.
Accurately evaluates the implications of new information or events.
Collects relevant information and data.
Asks the right questions to size up or evaluate situations.
Has the ability to compare "best practice" performance to current situation and affect improvements.
Determines the impact of recommended solutions.
Asks the "right" questions to size up or evaluate situations.
Gathers input from staff for use in problem solving.
Open to the suggestions of others when working on a problem.
Selects operating indicators to track organizational performance over time and communicates current status to the organization

Resourceful

Finds creative ways to get things done with limited resources.

Creativity and Innovation

Ability to develop innovative solutions to problems.
Identifies fresh approaches and shows a willingness to question traditional assumptions.
Generates alternative solutions to problems and challenges.
Generates innovative and practical ideas and approaches.
Develops innovative solutions to problems.
Able to develop innovative solutions to problems.
Effective in developing innovative products and services.
Develops creative solutions.

Task Oriented

Works extra as needed to find the best solution to a problem.
Works diligently until the problem is solved.

Effective

Effective in solving problems.
Implements effective solutions to critical problems.
Effective in solving difficult problems.
Effective problem-solver