Time Management Principles 1.2 Problem Solving

There are many formal problem-solving methods in use in business and IT. The TM4T method uses an approach based on a five step model.

Step 1: Analyse the Problem

Step 2: Consider Solution Options

Step 3: Choose an Option and Design a Solution

Step 4: Put the Solution into Action

Step 5: Test the Problem is resolved.

Albert Einstein once said 'If I had an hour to solve a problem I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and 5 minutes thinking about solutions'. I'm with Albert on this one - a lot of the techniques we describe in TM4T don't offer solutions, they just enable you to to see and understand what the problem is. Sometimes, they enable you to see that there isn't a problem at all.

Of course, your own school and its particular challenges will be different to most other schools and you will need to choose the solutions most appropriate to your own specific circumstances.

Clarity of understanding is crucial in solving your time-management problems and you should be prepared to spend some time thinking about your particular challenges and what you are trying to achieve.

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