From MU Management 8001: Solving Problems Using Systematic Approaches taught by Dr. Michael Christy
Focus on team decision making: three techniques designed to arrive at good decision even if team is not in agreement on objectives and importance of the issue at hand
1. Catchball
– Developed in Japan
Goals: Improving ideas and encouraging buy in among participants
Procedure
Start with an idea – toss it to the group for improvement
Gradual cycles of refinement until group feels that meaningful improvement can no longer be made
Outcomes
- Shared responsibility and commitment
- Feelings of ownership over idea help during its implementation
2. Point-Counterpoint
– Involves two teams, preferably of equal size, with mix of ideas in each group.
Procedure
Team A proposes idea to team B
Team B identifies one or more alternative courses of action
Team B presents ideas to team A at second meeting
Debate two proposals, identify common set of assumptions.
Outcomes
- Group agreement on a recommendation
3. Intellectual Watchdog
– Involves two teams
Procedure
Instead of proposing a counterproposal, one group critiques the other’s approach, leading to refinement in idea