In which problem-solving approach do individuals evaluate their potential outcomes as they select among solutions?

In which problem-solving approach do individuals evaluate their potential outcomes as they select among solutions?

• A. Heuristic Evaluation
• B. Outcome Analysis
• C. Evaluation Strategy
• D. Means-Ends Analysis

Answer: (D)

The approach where individuals evaluate their potential outcomes while selecting among solutions is known as Means-Ends Analysis. This strategy involves identifying the ultimate goal (the "end") and then assessing the various possible solutions (the "means") to determine which is most likely to achieve that goal effectively. It requires weighing potential outcomes and considering how each solution brings the individual closer to the desired result. This systematic evaluation helps individuals make informed decisions based on the effectiveness and efficiency of each possible approach to solve a problem. Options like Heuristic Evaluation and Outcome Analysis, while related to problem-solving, do not focus primarily on the evaluation of potential outcomes in the same methodical way as Means-Ends Analysis. Heuristic Evaluation relies more on cognitive shortcuts and strategies to find solutions based on experience, while Outcome Analysis looks more broadly at the results after actions have taken place rather than during the selection process. Evaluation Strategy, although it suggests an assessment of solutions, does not specifically describe the process of aligning means with ends as clearly as Means-Ends Analysis does.

The approach where individuals evaluate their potential outcomes while selecting among solutions is known as Means-Ends Analysis. This strategy involves identifying the ultimate goal (the "end") and then assessing the various possible solutions (the "means") to determine which is most likely to achieve that goal effectively. It requires weighing potential outcomes and considering how each solution brings the individual closer to the desired result. This systematic evaluation helps individuals make informed decisions based on the effectiveness and efficiency of each possible approach to solve a problem.

Options like Heuristic Evaluation and Outcome Analysis, while related to problem-solving, do not focus primarily on the evaluation of potential outcomes in the same methodical way as Means-Ends Analysis. Heuristic Evaluation relies more on cognitive shortcuts and strategies to find solutions based on experience, while Outcome Analysis looks more broadly at the results after actions have taken place rather than during the selection process. Evaluation Strategy, although it suggests an assessment of solutions, does not specifically describe the process of aligning means with ends as clearly as Means-Ends Analysis does.