Analysis in detail

Positive examples

• Seek out and use factual data where available
• Systematically analyse the pros and cons
• Anticipates problems and identify issues correctly

Negative examples

• Surprised by unexpected problems or issues
• Do not seek out enough data when it is available
• Mistake or fail to identify the causes of problems

Developing analysis skills

• Consider alternative approaches to problem solving after an attempt failed to meet its objectives
• Seek advice and views of others when problem solving

Helping others to develop analysis skills

• Suggest that they consider alternative approaches to problem solving after an attempt failed to meet its objectives
• Ask the individual's advice when problem solving e.g. "What do you see as the issues here?"
• Question the individual's decisions and ask for explanations
• Encourage the individual to use a systematic approach to problem solving and not just intuition
• Ask the individual to list the attributes of a person who you both see as strong at analysis, discuss which of these attributes the individual should plan to develop
• Ensure the individual explains reasons for decisions - test by questions
• Ask the individual to carry out an evaluation of a business problem
• Give the individual an objective to carry out a critical analysis of a process or procedure with a view to improvement
• Encourage the individual to take part in activities outside work which reinforce analytical thinking, such as chess, bridge, or programming