Projects are inherently unpredictable, and setbacks are not a matter of "if," but "when." The "Problem-Solving for Project Challenges: Master the Art of Unstoppable Projects Training Course" is specifically designed to transform project managers from reactive issue-solvers into proactive strategists. This course provides a comprehensive toolkit of advanced problem-solving methodologies, empowering professionals to not only identify and address challenges but to anticipate them, ensuring projects stay on track and deliver their intended value even in the face of adversity.

This 10-day immersive training will equip you with the critical thinking skills to diagnose complex project issues, from scope creep and budget overruns to team conflicts and stakeholder misalignment. You will learn to apply structured techniques like root cause analysis and creative ideation to uncover effective, lasting solutions. By the end of this program, you will possess the confidence and expertise to lead your teams through any obstacle, turning potential failures into opportunities for innovation and growth.

Duration: 10 days

Target Audience:

• Project Managers
• Program Managers
• Team Leads
• Scrum Masters
• Business Analysts
• Project Coordinators
• Senior Project Team Members
• PMO Professionals
• Functional Managers
• Anyone responsible for project delivery

Objectives:

• Understand the nature of project challenges
• Differentiate between symptoms and root causes
• Master a structured problem-solving process
• Apply creative and analytical thinking to issues
• Develop effective decision-making skills
• Learn to manage team conflict and communication
• Create and implement a proactive risk management plan
• Utilize data to inform problem-solving
• Evaluate solution effectiveness
• Cultivate a problem-solving mindset within your team

Course Modules:

Module 1: The Problem-Solving Mindset

• The importance of a proactive approach
• The difference between reactive and proactive thinking
• The role of a leader in problem-solving
• The importance of psychological safety in teams
• The benefits of a learning culture

Module 2: Defining the Problem

• Techniques for identifying project issues
• The importance of a clear problem statement
• Using the 5 Whys to get to the root cause
• The benefits of a collaborative approach
• The role of data in problem definition

Module 3: Root Cause Analysis

• The Ishikawa (Fishbone) Diagram
• Using Pareto Analysis to prioritize
• The benefits of a cause-and-effect diagram
• Techniques for a comprehensive analysis
• The importance of a data-driven approach

Module 4: Creative and Analytical Thinking

• The principles of creative problem-solving
• Brainstorming and mind mapping techniques
• The role of lateral thinking
• The importance of an open mindset
• The benefits of a diverse team

Module 5: Decision-Making Models

• The Vroom-Yetton decision model
• The importance of a rational decision-making process
• Using a decision matrix for complex choices
• The role of a leader in decision-making
• The benefits of a transparent process

Module 6: Stakeholder Problem-Solving

• The importance of stakeholder alignment
• Techniques for managing conflicting priorities
• The role of a stakeholder in a solution
• The importance of clear communication
• The benefits of a collaborative approach

Module 7: Team and Interpersonal Challenges

• The nature of team conflict
• Techniques for resolving conflict
• The importance of a strong team culture
• The role of a facilitator
• The benefits of active listening

Module 8: Resource and Budget Constraints

• The nature of resource limitations
• The importance of a clear resource plan
• Strategies for managing budget overruns
• The role of a project manager in a budget review
• The benefits of a clear financial model

Module 9: Scope and Requirements Management

• The nature of scope creep
• Techniques for managing changing requirements
• The importance of a clear scope statement
• The role of a change control board
• The benefits of a disciplined approach

Module 10: Proactive Risk Management

• The difference between risks and issues
• Techniques for identifying and analyzing risks
• The importance of a risk register
• The role of a contingency plan
• The benefits of an early warning system

Module 11: Solution Implementation

• The importance of a clear implementation plan
• Techniques for managing solution rollout
• The role of a pilot program
• The importance of a feedback loop
• The benefits of a phased approach

Module 12: Communication for Problem-Solving

• The importance of clear and concise communication
• Techniques for communicating bad news
• The role of a status report
• The benefits of a transparent approach
• The importance of a single point of contact

Module 13: Measuring Solution Effectiveness

• The importance of a success metric
• Techniques for tracking progress
• The role of a lessons learned session
• The importance of a post-mortem analysis
• The benefits of a continuous improvement loop

Module 14: Case Studies and Simulations

• Analyzing real-world project challenges
• Developing a problem-solving plan for a case study
• Presenting your solution to a mock team
• The importance of a realistic scenario
• The role of a mentor in your development

Module 15: Tools and Technology

• An overview of problem-solving tools
• Using project management software for issue tracking
• The benefits of a knowledge base
• The importance of choosing the right tools
• The role of a data analyst

Module 16: The Future of Project Problem-Solving

• The impact of AI on problem-solving
• The importance of emerging technologies
• The role of a project professional in a changing world
• The benefits of a futuristic mindset
• The importance of preparing for what's next

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.