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Integrated Critical Thinking for MODERN Problem Solving

Think Flexibly. Solve Deeply. Lead Holistically.

Description

In a world of shifting expectations, ambiguity, and accelerating change, typical problem-solving methods don’t cut it. Our workshop, Integrated Critical Thinking for Modern Problem Solving™, delivers a breakthrough approach: instead of teaching tools in isolation, we unite four powerful lenses — Analytical, Lean, Design, and Systems Thinking — into one cohesive learning journey.

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You’ll not only learn how to think logically, empathically, creatively, and systemically, but also how to choose and blend these lenses to suit real business challenges. Gain access to proven frameworks (PDCA, 5 Whys, Fishbone, etc.), real-world success and failure case studies, and hands-on application—so you can solve the right problems, faster and more sustainably.

Critical Thinking: The 4-Lenses Model by Operational Excellence Consulting

Recommended Audience

This workshop is ideal for:

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  • Mid to senior managers, team leaders, consultants, and innovation/change agents who must lead through complexity.

  • Professionals responsible for process improvement, service innovation, customer experience, or sustainability.

  • Teams who want not just knowledge, but a shared, integrated approach that scales across the organization.

Methodology

Critical Thinking for Problem Solving Workshop
Critical Thinking for Problem Solving Workshop
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Our experiential-learning format ensures practical, not just theoretical, outcomes:

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  • Engaging sessions introducing the 4 lenses and how they interrelate.

  • Tool practice: you will use the same tools you’ll later integrate — PDCA, Lean waste-elimination, empathy tools, systems maps.

  • Real-world case studies of both success & failure for each lens.

  • Group challenge to apply multiple lenses to your own pressing problem.

  • Reflection and peer critique to embed mindset shifts.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this workshop, you will be able to:

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  • Understand Critical Thinking as a holistic capability built on four complementary lenses.

  • Apply Analytical Thinking tools and structured problem-solving frameworks (PDCA, 5 Whys, Fishbone) to define and resolve issues logically.

  • Leverage Lean Thinking to identify waste, improve processes, and create value with efficiency.

  • Practice Design Thinking to empathize with stakeholders and generate innovative, human-centered solutions.

  • Use Systems Thinking to map interconnections, anticipate ripple effects, and address complex challenges.

  • Select and integrate the right lens (or combination of lenses) based on the situation for more effective decision-making.

Workshop Outline

Session 1: Foundations of Critical Thinking

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  • Definition, importance and mindset

  • The four lenses: Analytical, Lean, Design, Systems

  • Overcoming cognitive biases and mental traps

  • Decision flowchart: choosing the right lens

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Session 2: Analytical Thinking Lens

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  • PDCA as structured problem solving

  • Root cause analysis tools (5 Whys, Fishbone)

  • Data-based reasoning and visual mapping

  • Case examples of analytical success & failure

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Session 3: Lean Thinking Lens

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  • Lean principles & value vs waste

  • Tools like Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, visual management

  • Efficiency and flow improvement case examples

  • Embedding a Lean mindset

Session 4: Design Thinking Lens

 

  • Empathy → Define → Ideate → Prototype → Test process

  • Empathy tools, user journey mapping, ideation techniques

  • Prototype / test examples, user-centric innovation case studies

  • Barriers to adoption and how to overcome them

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Session 5: Systems Thinking Lens

 

  • Principles: interconnections, feedback loops, delays, leverage points

  • Tools like Iceberg Model, causal loop diagrams, system mapping

  • Case studies showing systemic failures and successes

  • Applications to strategy, sustainability, complex change

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Session 6: Integration & Application

 

  • Combining lenses to solve real challenges

  • Integration tools and flowchart to guide lens selection/combinations

  • Capstone case-challenge or simulation (group)

  • Presentation, peer feedback, and action planning

Award of Certificate

Certificate of Attendance will be issued to participants who have attended at least 75% of the workshop

Duration

1-day and 2-day formats available

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