COURSE OUTLINE

Day 1 - Structured Problem Analysis

Most bad decisions are bad analyses in disguise. Day 1 tightens how you define and diagnose problems.

·      Module 1: Why We Make Bad Decisions

o  Topics Covered:

§ The most common cognitive biases; where they show up at work; how to catch them in yourself.

o  Methods:

§ Self-assessment, case study

·      Module 2: Defining the Problem

o  Topics Covered:

§ Problem-statement structure (5W1H); 5 Whys done right; the difference between symptom and problem.

o  Methods:

§ Framework, live practice

·      Module 3: Root Cause Analysis

o  Topics Covered:

§ Ishikawa diagrams for multi-cause problems; fault-tree analysis for complex systems; when to use each.

o  Methods:

§ RCA workshop

·      Module 4: Systems Thinking

o  Topics Covered:

§ Causal-loop diagrams; stocks and flows; unintended consequences; feedback loops.

o  Methods:

§ Case method, mapping

·      Workshop: Diagnose a Real Problem

o  Topics Covered:

§ Bring your own real problem; apply the full Day 1 toolkit; present to peers for challenge.

o  Methods:

§ Applied workshop

Day 2 - Decision Making Frameworks

From diagnosis to decision - match the framework to the problem, weigh options rigorously, and communicate to drive action.

·      Module 5: Decision Types & Frameworks

o  Topics Covered:

§ Cynefin (Clear, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic); OODA loop; RAPID; picking the right framework.

o  Methods:

§ Lecture, decision sort

·      Module 6: Weighting Options

o  Topics Covered:

§ Decision matrices; weighted criteria; MCDA basics; common traps (false precision, anchored weights).

o  Methods:

§ Live exercise on real decision

·      Module 7: Managing Uncertainty

o  Topics Covered:

§ Pre-mortem technique; expected-value reasoning; scenario planning; base rates; calibration.

o  Methods:

§ Pre-mortem practice

·      Module 8: Communicating Decisions

o  Topics Covered:

§ One-page decision memo (Question, Evidence, Options, Recommendation, Review); when to verbalize vs write.

o  Methods:

§ Memo drafting

·      Capstone: Problem-to-Decision Brief

o  Topics Covered:

§ Integrated brief from Day 1 problem: RCA + decision framework + weighted options + pre-mortem + memo.

o  Methods:

§ Capstone + peer review

KEY TAKEAWAYS

·      A personal cognitive-bias checklist - the three biases you're most prone to, and what to do about them.

·      A practiced 5 Whys and Ishikawa capability on at least one real problem you brought to the program.

·      A Cynefin sense-check you'll run before any major decision - to pick the right framework.

·      A completed decision matrix for a real decision you faced, peer-reviewed for weight assumptions.

·      A pre-mortem run on a decision you're currently considering - risks surfaced before commitment.

·      A one-page decision memo you've drafted, ready to share with stakeholders back at work.

TRAINING MATERIALS

Participant workbook; cognitive-bias self-assessment instrument; Ishikawa diagram templates; causal-loop diagram starter kit; Cynefin pocket card; decision matrix template; pre-mortem worksheet; decision memo template with examples.

DELIVERY OPTIONS

·      Face-to-face — classroom delivery at client or Axentra venue, 8 hours per day.

·      Virtual instructor-led — 2 x 4-hour half-day sessions per day-equivalent.

·      Hybrid / blended — self-paced pre-work, live instructor-led core, manager-led follow-through.

·      Cohort program — delivered in cohorts over 4-12 weeks with spaced practice and peer coaching.

EVALUATION & IMPACT

Every delivery includes:

·      Kirkpatrick Level 1 and Level 2 evaluation through TEEF and post-tests.

·      Kirkpatrick Level 3 follow-up at 3-6 months, capturing on-the-job application.

·      Kirkpatrick Level 4 assessment at 12 months, measuring organizational impact.

For customization, bundling, or pricing proposals, contact the Axentra Global Inc training desk. All outlines are subject to refinement following a Learning Needs Analysis (LNA) with the sponsoring client.