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State FOUR steps in problem-solving - NSC Business Studies - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 4
State FOUR steps in problem-solving. Elaborate on the roles of the health and safety representatives in protecting the workplace environment. Read the scenario bel... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:State FOUR steps in problem-solving - NSC Business Studies - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
FOUR steps in problem-solving
Answer
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Identify the problem: Clearly define what the issue is that needs to be addressed.
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Define the problem: Understand the specifics and implications surrounding the problem.
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Identify possible solutions to the problem: Brainstorm potential ways to resolve the issue identified.
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Select the most appropriate alternative: Evaluate the possible solutions and choose the best one to implement.
Step 2
Elaborate on the roles of the health and safety representatives in protecting the workplace environment
Answer
Health and safety representatives have several crucial roles:
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Ensuring that protective clothing is provided to all workers, thereby safeguarding their health.
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Identifying potential hazards in the workplace and addressing them proactively. They are responsible for prompting regular checks and measures to maintain safety standards.
Step 3
Identify TWO diversity issues that are applicable to NAS. Motivate your answer by quoting from the scenario above.
Answer
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Gender: The management of NAS employs both males and females, which highlights the importance of gender diversity in the workplace.
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Age: Older employees are encouraged to be mentors for young employees, supporting age diversity and promoting intergenerational relationships.
Step 4
Explain how businesses could apply the Delphi-technique to solve business problems
Answer
The Delphi technique involves gathering a panel of experts to provide independent opinions on a specific issue. Businesses can employ this technique as follows:
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Forming a diverse panel of experts.
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Distributing questionnaires designed to gather insights on improving the quality of services or products.
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Analyzing the feedback collaboratively to form a consensus on the best solutions.
Step 5
Discuss the advantages of creative thinking in the workplace
Answer
Creative thinking can significantly benefit businesses in various ways:
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It enhances problem-solving abilities, allowing teams to address challenges innovatively.
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It fosters a motivating environment, encouraging employees to contribute ideas and be involved in the business's growth.
Step 6
Quote TWO ways in which JT contributed to the well-being of their communities
Answer
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By investing surplus profit into corporate social investment (CSI) projects, JT supported local schools through uniform donations.
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JT provided sporting facilities to promote a healthy lifestyle among community members.
Step 7
Discuss the impact of corporate social investment (CSI) on JT as a business
Answer
Engaging in CSI can positively impact JT by:
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Attracting experienced employees and increasing the skilled labor pool, which could enhance productivity.
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Improving the company's image and reputation as a socially responsible business, thereby possibly increasing sales.
Step 8
Explain how businesses can apply the King Code principles of transparency and accountability to improve their ethical business practices
Answer
Businesses can implement King Code principles by:
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Establishing clear policies for ethical conduct that are communicated to all employees.
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Conducting regular audits and providing transparent reporting to ensure accountability in business practices.
Step 9
Suggest ways in which businesses can deal with the following unethical/unprofessional business practices
Answer
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Lack of professionalism: Implement training programs that promote workplace professionalism and ethical behavior.
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Dropping of projects in rural areas: Establish commitment programs ensuring ongoing support for projects in rural communities.
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Abuse of power: Create a whistleblowing policy that protects employees who report unethical behavior.