The purpose of this assignment is to apply the IDEAL problem-solving method to relevant business scenarios.

Professionals recognize the need to integrate problem solving skills in the work environment. The IDEAL problem-solving method developed by Bradford and Stein is implemented by Identifying the problem, Defining the problem, Exploring strategies, Acting on ideas, and Learning from experience.  

Review the “Problem Solving Scenarios” and select one relevant business scenario. You are required to address the following questions in a 300-500 word outline:

• Examine the behaviors presented in the selected scenario. Apply the IDEAL problem-solving process to the scenario. Be sure you discuss each aspect (Identify, Define, Explore, Act, and Learn) of the method as it relates to the scenario.
• Determine whether the behavior in the scenario could be described as unethical or illegal and how this should be addressed professionally.
• Describe how you would resolve this issue using the IDEAL method.

While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. 

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion. 

You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Course Materials if you need assistance.

Problem Solving Scenarios 

Directions: Select one of the following business scenarios and apply the IDEAL problem-solving method. Be sure to address each of the questions presented in the assignment description. 

I. Scenario I – Roger Richardson 

Roger Richardson works as an IT manager for a small accounting firm. The company has recently bought new computers for its nearly 40 employees and needs to dispose of the old computers because confidential financial information and employees’ personal information are stored on the hard drives. Since the company is small, Roger and one other IT staff member, Russell Bedford, typically handle all matters related to procurement, maintenance, and disposal of all company computer systems. Normally, he and Russell go out behind the building, physically destroy the computers’ hard drives, and then throw all the equipment into the dumpster for removal. Recently, Roger has been told by the company president that they need to be more environmentally responsible and that all electronics should instead be recycled. Russell offered to take the machines to the local recycling center for proper disposal, but Roger said he would handle it himself. However, instead of driving the computers to the recycling center, Roger took the computers home in his truck one night after work and stored them in his garage. Over the next several months, he replaced the hard drives of all the computers and sold them online and to other local small businesses for $250 each, earning him close to $10,000.