Collaborative Problem Solving
In collaborative problem solving, the individuals join together to find a solution acceptable to both. It entails redefining the problem, discovering novel alternatives and focusing on overlapping interests. Neither person capitulates or dominates the other. No one looses or gives in because both parties benefit. This is often called a win/win way of dealing with conflicting needs. It has been found to be successful with an extraordinarily high percentage of typical problems, which occur between people.
Six Steps of the Collaborative Problem Solving Model
- Define the problem in terms of needs not solutions.
- Brainstorm possible solutions.
- Select the solution that will best meet both parties needs and check possible consequences.
- Plan who will do what, where, and by when
- Implement the plan
- Evaluate the problem-solving process and at a later date how well the solution worked out.
Step 1 Define the problem in terms of needs not solutions
Conflict in a situation occurs because the individuals desire goal/solutions which they perceive as attainable by one or the other but not both. For a win/win outcome the problem is stated in terms of needs not solutions. To discover needs it is usually necessary to find out why the person wants the solution originally proposed. Sometimes it is necessary to separate means from ends. This step may take more than half of the total time and it requires asserting one's own needs, listening reflectively until you understand the others needs and when it is complete both sets of needs are restated in a one sentence long summary of the problem.
The message conveyed is that the other person and their needs are important and you and your needs are important.
Step 2 Brainstorm possible solutions
Brainstorming is the rapid generation and listing of solution ideas without clarification and without evaluation of their merits. Go for quantity not quality. Don't evaluate. Don't seek clarification. Go for zany ideas. Expand on each other's ideas. List every idea. Do not attach names or separate by person ideas, which are generated.
The message conveyed is that creative thinking is valued and that working together can be more creative in dealing with a common concern than working alone.
Step 3 Select the solution (or combination of solutions) that will best meet both parties needs.
If clarification is required, the "no evaluation" guideline continues to apply. Ask what solutions the other would favor in the resolution of the problem. State which alternatives are best for you. Determine which choices coincide. Jointly decide on one or more of the alternatives. Usually, if the needs were well defined at the start, several of the same alternatives will be selected by both parties.
Ensure that both parities are satisfied with the solution so that both will be motivated to see the solution implemented. Consensus is the decision-making process most appropriate to use in this situation. Consensus is a process of free and open exchange of ideas until agreement has been reached. Each individual's concerns are heard and understood and a sincere attempt to take them into consideration is made. The conclusion may not reflect the exact wishes of either member but in that it does not violate deep concerns of the parities, it can be agreed upon.
The message conveyed is that both individuals want to have their needs satisfied and it is unacceptable to have either one denied their needs.
Step 4 Plan who will do what where, and by when
This involves working out the specific pragmatics of the solution and determining any unforeseen consequences. Once the details have been worked out it is usually helpful to write them out - but only as a reminder.
The message conveyed is that both individuals are willing to make joint decisions and coordinated plans to meet needs.
Step 5 Implement the plan
Complete the action steps on schedule as a measure of good faith. If there is failure to do so, an assertion message followed by reflective listening may be appropriate.
The message conveyed is that both individuals have the power to change their behaviors in ways that will enhance their lives and their relationship. Commitment is expressed in actions in addition to words.
Step 6 Evaluate the problem-solving process and at a later date how well the solution worked out.
Evaluate the process was - how each feels, what they most liked and most disliked about the process, anything that they wished they had or hadn't said and what each can do better the next time. Set a time for evaluation of the solution (after it has had a chance to be implemented). If it is not working, it needs to be corrected, or a new one needs to be established. If it is working well it needs to be celebrated in some way.
The message conveyed is each individual desires to continually improve the way problems are solved. Both individuals demonstrate honesty and integrity by discussing their feelings about this interaction. They are not locked into any solution policy or rule. If it doesn't turn out as good as anticipated they have the power to make it better.
Adapted from People Skills: Robert: Bolton, Simon and Shuster 1979 April 2001
Please send comments regarding this page to Nancy Willihnganz at will@camosun.bc.ca