What is Interest Based Problem Solving (IBPS)?

MADISON COLLEGE

Madison College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. Inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies are handled by

the Affirmative Action Officer, 1701 Wright Street, Madison, WI. 53704, phone 608.243.4449. 01106 8/14

Real-world smart.

What is IBPS? IBPS is a tool that emphasizes respectful and innovative solutions to challenges in the workplace. The goal of the process is to create a “win-win” for all affected by a particular issue. IBPS can be used at the program, department or unit level as well as at the college policy level.

madisoncollege.edu/in/ibps

Questions? Contact Jeremy Kautza

jkautza@madisoncollege.edu

(608) 246-4048

IBPS is here to help all Madison

College employees. Let’s work together.

“ Interest Based Problem Solving is a shift from an authoritative posture to one of shared authority and responsibility—up and down throughout this organization. I believe this makes us stronger…and I believe it is the right thing to do.”

— Dr. Jack E. Daniels, III, President

INTEREST BASED PROBLEM SOLVING

The IBPS Process

Interest-based Principles* n Separate the people from the problem.

n Focus on interests, not positions.

n Generate multiple options.

n Evaluate by objective criteria and interests.

n Accept outcome if superior to Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement (BATNA).

IBPS is here to help all Madison College employees. Let’s work together.

“How does IBPS work?”A Problem/Issue is presented. Here is a summary of what follows:

n The history behind the issue at hand is reviewed.

n Facilitators and those facing the issue identify interests (hopes, worries, needs, concerns).

n The group then brainstorms multiple options and solutions.

All work together to agree upon the best possible result.

“Why does IBPS matter to me?”IBPS means that employees have a tool to use to meet almost any challenge. It is not only used for conflicts. Teams throughout the college are encouraged to use IBPS to find solutions. It is also a great resource for teams planning a change of process.

“What can IBPS do for me?”n Facilitation of individual faculty,

supervisor and staff conflicts

n Addressing department or programmatic issues

n Coaching for managers and supervisors for using IBPS

Questions asked in an IBPS sessionBelow are a few of the questions that will be asked to determine solutions that work for all parties involved:

n Who will be affected by our decision?

n What is the issue?

n How did this problem arise?

n What are our interests (hopes, concerns)?

n What are some options and solutions? (Brainstorm solutions, withholding all criticism.)

n What are the best options?

n How and when will we follow-up on the solution?

How is IBPS used in Shared Governance?The College Assembly and the seven councils use the IBPS approach to create policy decisions. See the Shared Governance website

http://madisoncollege.edu/shared-governance

madisoncollege.edu Real-world smart.

INTEREST BASED PROBLEM SOLVING

Collectively identify issues

Reach consensus

on preferred options

Review history of the

issues

Brainstorm multiple options

Identify interests

Identify objective solution criteria

*Fisher, Ury & Patton, Getting to Yes, 1991