Page 252 - DMGT106_MANAGING_HUMAN_ELEMENTS_AT_WORK

Managing Human Element at Work

Notes 11.5 Problem-Solving Behaviours

The different ways of gathering and evaluating information combine to form a matrix of
four problem-solving behaviours. These four personality types emerge. Each type has its
virtues and shortcomings, but in a complex organization all are necessary.
The following descriptions are based on research on the problem-solving behaviours of
managers.

Figure 11.1: Four Cognitive Styles

Sensation
Information
Sensation Sensation
Thinkers Feelers
(ST) (SF)
Thinking Evaluating Information Feeling
Intuitive Intuitive
Thinkers Gathering Feelers
(IT) (IF)

Intuition

11.5.1 Sensation Thinkers (ST)

Amit Sawhney is the archetypal bureaucrat concerned with formulating and enforcing rules.
Because sensation and thinking dominate his functions, Amit is persistent, yet decisive. He
weighs costs and benefits, plans a logical schedule, and has an infinite capacity to absorb
and remember details.
Amit is a hard worker, good coordinator, and dependable leader. His penchant for analysis
and logic makes him quite predictable. However, as a sensation thinker, Amit tends to
become impatient with those who are not equally detailed, organized, and rational. He
avoids abstractions and seldom provides feedback to others unless it is based on measured
performance. Amit is so concerned with preserving acceptable practices and tradition that
he overlooks possibilities for creative improvements.

11.5.2 Intuitive Thinkers (IT)
Shalini Mittal exemplifies the intuitive thinker. She is a manager who looks ahead, always
searching for innovative possibilities. Although she tends to be impersonal, Shalini is quick
to analyse the power dynamics within an organization. She is noted for her intellectual
capabilities and pioneering ideas. Shalini is a great designer of new methods and projects.
She then depends on her staff to flush out the details of her proposals.
Once a project has been initiated, Shalini relinquishes its administration to someone better
suited to establish organizational routines. Gifted in abstract creativity, Shalini sometimes
is insensitive to the personal needs and wishes of others. Nevertheless, as an intuitive
thinker, she responds to the ideas and problems of others when they are logical and
reasonable. She finds it difficult to accept anything other than competent, professional
performance. Shalini frequently expects more than others are prepared to deliver.
11.5.3 Sensation Feelers (SF)

Sensation feelers are exemplified by Shweta, who is a methodological manager. She is great
at analysis based on detailed observation. Shweta deals efficiently with here-and-now

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