Ms. Schmidt is coming back to the workplace after having taken time off to spend with her children. ...

Answer to #1

TRUE

Answer to #2

TRUE

Answer to #3

TRUE

Answer to #4

The basic problem-solving procedure involves six steps. Many groups skip Steps 13, but all steps must be addressed for successful basic problem solving. Step 1: Define the problem. Do not eliminate this step because valuable time can be wasted on the assumption that everyone knows the exact problem. Step 2: Research and analyze the problem. Do not omit step; teams can reach unsound decisions if they do not know enough. Step 3: Establish a checklist of criteria, the guidelines a group agrees to follow in reaching a solution (or a requirements checklist). This is one of the most important steps of all. Criteria must be divided into must criteria (required) and want criteria (desired). Step 4: List possible alternatives in as much detail as time and budget permit. Postpone evaluation until Step 5 to avoid hampering creative thinking. Brainstorming (spontaneous contributions of ideas by all team members) is one method of generating creative detailed lists of ideas. Step 5: Evaluate each alternative. If Steps 14 are well done, this step should be simple. Step 6: Select the best alternative or alternatives. The best solution is the one that best fulfills the criteria, but several alternatives can meet the criteria.

Answer to #5

Three categories of groups are generally used in business group communication. 1.) Learning groups are involved in seeking or sharing information. (e.g. a management training seminar or new employee orientation group) 2. Self-maintenance groups seek to inspire desirable attitudes, understanding, and communication patterns, not merely inform (e.g., companies that project a corporate culture use such groups to train employees). 3. Problem-solving groups make a series of decisions attempting to solve a specific problem (e.g., passengers on Flight 93 on 9/11).