Year: 1991
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Problem finding represents the very first stage in the problem oriented I phase of problem solving and embodies the processes by which we become Laware of a problem.Problem finding is a critical activity, as it determines which aspects of the environment will be..attended to through problem solving efforts and, hence, the allocation of limited resources.Problems represent important activators of action in organizations, and problem fmding may be seen as a necessary precondition for managerial activity directed toward organizational adaption (Kiesler and Sproull, 1982;Lyles and Mitroff, 1980;Pounds, 1969).In this light, problem solving should be approached in a proactive, as well as reactive, manner.So far, contributions addressing problem finding are scarce, and ~Q integrated body of theory or common conceptual framework has been (Dillon, 1982).In particular, there is a lack of knowledge concerning managerial problem finding, i.e. problem finding in the organizational context.The literature on managerial cognition emphasizes the latter, solution oriented phases of decision making and problem solving, whereas initial, problem oriented activities have been under-researched (cf., Porac and Thomas, 1989;Smith 1988).As a consequence, there is a considerable research gap with respect to the critical issue of managerial ~-----problem finding, and there is a continued and pressing need to develop better understanding of the initial phases ofproblem solving in general, and in the organizational context in particular.The processes and mechanisms underlying problem finding need to be explored in order to arrive at a more comprehensive and inclusive body of knowledge on problem solving. Purpose of the StudyThe aim of the present study is twofold.The first aim is to contribute to a clarification of the related concepts and phenomena problem and problem finding.The perspective chosen is from the point ofview of the individual problem finder.Special attention will be devoted to the objectivistsubjectivist dilemma concerning the reality of a problem.Furthermore, we Table 2.1.Contributions addressing Problem Finding
Author: Linda Lai
Language: English
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2486247678