What is the Kepner Tregoe Method?

Problems occur in any given organization. Often there is a pressure of time to solve the problems and it is debatable what the right way of solving these problems is. The Kepner Tregoe method (KT-method) is a problem analysis model in which the “problem” is disconnected from the “decision”. An English synonym for this problem-solving method is Problem Solving and Decision Making (PSDM).

Traditional thinking pattern

The founders Charles Kepner and Benjamin Tregoe developed a rational working method in the 1960s in which they researched and identified the troubleshooting skills of people. Throughout the centuries mankind has learned to deal with complexity and to (directly) anticipate on this. As a consequence, the traditional thinking pattern became a part of human nature.

When solving problems people search for the answer to the following four questions:

1. What happened?
2. Why did it happen?
3. How should we act?
4. What will be the (future) result?

Rational processes

To break through this traditional pattern Charles Kepner and Benjamin Tregoe came up with four rational processes in which four fundamental questions are reflected:

Situation analysis

This clarifies the problem situation (what happened).

Problem analysis

Here the actual cause of the problem and the relationship between cause and result are searched for (why did it happen).

Decision analysis

Based on the decision making criteria, choices are made to arrive at potential problem resolutions (how should we act).

Potential Problem analysis

Here potential future problems are anticipated and preventative actions are developed (what will the result be).

Distinction

According to the Kepner Tregoe Method, different tasks involve different problems, which in turn need different approaches. A situation analysis will clarify the distinctions in all these processes and as a result it will be possible to search for suitable solutions. This situation analysis provides an insight into necessity, priority and urgency of the various tasks. When it has become clear which tasks are to be prioritized (action list) preparations can be made for potential problems. By using a good problem analysis in advance, a process will be created to prevent future problems or in emergencies, to limit the damage.

Cause

The strengths of the Kepner Tregoe Method does not stop there. Apart from the fact that problems are specified in terms such as “what, where, when and how big”, the Kepner Tregoe Method focuses on anything that cannot be the cause of the problem. Certain causes are therefore excluded. Based on a “this is” and “this is not” analysis a clear overview of possible causes can be created and this makes the troubleshooting process consistent.

Efficient

The Kepner Tregoe Method deploys an efficient troubleshooting process. Through research Charles Kepner and Benjamin Tregoe discovered that the registration of a problem is not a uniform process. In spite of the available information, people usually process information badly, misinterpret this or overlook important matters.

In addition, Charles Kepner and Benjamin Tregoe examined the discrepancies between successful and less successful troubleshooting. They discovered that a predetermined logical method facilitates the search for the causes of a problem. In their “Best practice in troubleshooting”, they describe this methodology, which forms the basis for the Kepner Tregoe Method.

Effective

The Kepner Tregoe Method is universal and is still used today in many organizations to track down problems and identify potential causes. Apart from the fact that the Kepner Tregoe Method leads to an explanation of problems, it also helps improve mutual understanding within an organization. Moreover, it also helps improve clear communications with customer and suppliers, production quality, customer service and anything related to maintenance and repairs.

It’s Your Turn

What do you think? Is the Kepner Tregoe Method applicable in today’s modern organizations? Do you recognize the practical explanation or do you have more suggestions? What are your success factors for the good Kepner Tregoe Method set up?

Share your experience and knowledge in the comments box below.

More information

1. Lussier, R. N.  (2005). Management fundamentals: concepts. applications, skill development. 
2. Payne, S. L. & Marty, C.S. (1966). The Rational Manager: A Systematic Approach to Problem Solving and Decision Making. Journal of Marketing. Vol. 30 Issue 1, p97.
3. Charles Kepner and Benjamin Tregoe (1965). The Rational Manager. McGraw-Hill.

Source : toolshero

At the end of this workshop, participants will be able to :

1. Break down large concern into manageable pieces and set priority

2. Find the root cause of the problem before investing in expensive corrective action

3. Make the best balanced choise even when the choice between altenatives is unclear

4. Develop preventif action to protect your business plan (risk management)

Supervisor, manager

1. Break down large concern into manageable pieces and set priority

2. Find the root cause of the problem before investing in expensive corrective action

3. Make the best balanced choise even when the choice between altenatives is unclear

 4. Develop preventif action to protect your business plan (risk management)