problem analysis summary

Problem Analysis Summary

The employees of ABC Company have identified a problem, which must be resolved. ABC employs a part-time administrative assistant whose work ethics and productivity are lacking; thereby affecting others in the organization. The employee is responsible to answer phones, take messages, and assist each department in performing various administrative functions. The position held by this employee is important, as each department relies on her input and assistance in completing their assigned tasks. The administrative assistant’s lack of follow-through and general uncaring attitude towards her work has caused her co-workers to be frustrated, annoyed, and more importantly, has led to productivity being negatively affected.

In reviewing the problem it is important to note the specific details of the behaviors the administrative assistant is displaying. The hours for the position were presented to the administrative assistant; however, she arrives late for work on a daily basis. This issue has been discussed with her, without successful resolution; she has a daily excuse of why she is late. The worker in question does not finish the tasks assigned, and typically procrastinates beginning a project. When the employee works on an assignment, she does not stay focused, gets easily side-tracked and appears to be working on several projects at once, never giving any assignment her undivided attention. Finally, phone messages that are written by the worker are vague and incoherent. All of the aforementioned details lead the administrative assistant’s co-workers to realize there is a problem with this worker.

In a casual discussion of two employees who work with the administrative assistant, it was discovered that most of the workers recognize that there is a problem with the worker in question. The co-workers began to share notes and soon realized that each department was experiencing the same difficulties with the administrative assistant. This appeared to be the triggering event that exposed the problem to the group.

To utilize critical thinking skills and thoroughly analyze the problem, we will address the following questions: 1) Could the administrative assistant be overloaded with work? 2) Could some of the projects be given to other members of the staff to relieve the pressure?