Once a dispute is settled, taking time to reflect when the heat is off will help provide an understanding of what happened, and why, and how it can be avoided in the future. It is worth making a written evaluation to help inform future decisions.
A hidden trap within problem solving is the danger of overanalysis, when often what is really required is nothing more than a pen, paper and a period of quiet thought and discussion. The following points are important in all problem-solving styles.
Identifying the problem. What is the nature of the problem? What is its importance to your operations? Asking or answering these questions sets the tone for how the problem is tackled (for example, whether it is handled urgently or patiently, individually or collectively).
Collecting and processing information. What information is needed to solve the problem, what data are available, and what extra information may be required? Too little information may make it difficult to come up with a solution. Too much information may make it difficult to see what the solution is.
Generating possible solutions. Set an exploratory tone to the problem-solving process. This will allow a range of potential solutions to be generated.