This book offers a process for conceiving solutions to complex, wicked, messy, swampy or socio-technical problems. When charged with complex problem solving, a useful set of concepts needs to emerge, be agreed, and acted upon. Using relevant examples and solution mapping, Mike Metcalfe explains how pragmatic philosophy can be used as a process for solving such issues.To explain why and how to formulate reflective, pragmatic, or concept driven problem-solving, this book uses the concepts of: - Pragmatic inquiry - Stakeholders' concerns - Idea networking - Solution concepts - Paradoxical outcomes, and - Intent (with related actions). This innovative book will be of interest to academics, postgraduate students and managers charged with solving complex social or managerial problems. Contents: Preface 1. Reflective Thinking 2. Problem-solving as Pragmatic Inquiry 3. Concerns as Default Concepts 4. Collaborative Planning 5. Idea Networking 6. Solution Concepts 7. Concepts as Dialectic Decision Criteria 8. Solution Action Plans 9. Paradoxical Consequences 10. Questioning Action Plans 11. Solutions Mapping 12. Conclusion Appendix 1: Networking Statements

This book is about managing the task of forecasting profit. It builds a case for using multiple methods, providing examples of each method, and suggesting practical techniques to use in dealing with the issues and problems of accuracy in profit forecasts. All the elements that infringe on profits (costs, sales, budgeting, investment, and loan default) are examined within this framework. In addition to synthesizing the research, Professor Metcalfe has applied his own research work on forecast modeling and judgmental methods. The final result is a practical reference book for making more accurate profit forecasts.

This book suggests that business research, in the collection, analysis, and communication of evidence, will benefit from explicit acceptance of research as argumentation. Argumentation is the process of compiling an argument through selection and organization of the relevant evidence. Recently, business research methods books have placed too much emphasis on the scientific method as brute empiricism, using only large sample statistical testing and demanding prediction through retesting old theories. Especially with regard to the study of human activity, there is now much evidence that there is not one special scientific method. This book argues that all types of empirical data, including statistics and personal experiences, be accepted as data, but that it is essential that these observations be explained. This book will provide researchers and postgraduate business students with a strategy for conducting research that encourages thought, provides a way of critically perceiving previous research, as well as suggesting a logical structure for communicating their research.

This book suggests that business research, in the collection, analysis, and communication of evidence, will benefit from explicit acceptance of research as argumentation. Argumentation is the process of compiling an argument through selection and organization of the relevant evidence. Recently, business research methods books have placed too much emphasis on the scientific method as brute empiricism, using only large sample statistical testing and demanding prediction through retesting old theories. Especially with regard to the study of human activity, there is now much evidence that there is not one special scientific method. This book argues that all types of empirical data, including statistics and personal experiences, be accepted as data, but that it is essential that these observations be explained. This book will provide researchers and postgraduate business students with a strategy for conducting research that encourages thought, provides a way of critically perceiving previous research, as well as suggesting a logical structure for communicating their research.

This book is about managing the task of forecasting profit. It builds a case for using multiple methods, providing examples of each method, and suggesting practical techniques to use in dealing with the issues and problems of accuracy in profit forecasts. All the elements that infringe on profits (costs, sales, budgeting, investment, and loan default) are examined within this framework. In addition to synthesizing the research, Professor Metcalfe has applied his own research work on forecast modeling and judgmental methods. The final result is a practical reference book for making more accurate profit forecasts.

This book offers a process for conceiving solutions to complex, wicked, messy, swampy or socio-technical problems. When charged with complex problem solving, a useful set of concepts needs to emerge, be agreed, and acted upon. Using relevant examples and solution mapping, Mike Metcalfe explains how pragmatic philosophy can be used as a process for solving such issues.To explain why and how to formulate reflective, pragmatic, or concept driven problem-solving, this book uses the concepts of: - Pragmatic inquiry - Stakeholders' concerns - Idea networking - Solution concepts - Paradoxical outcomes, and - Intent (with related actions). This innovative book will be of interest to academics, postgraduate students and managers charged with solving complex social or managerial problems. Contents: Preface 1. Reflective Thinking 2. Problem-solving as Pragmatic Inquiry 3. Concerns as Default Concepts 4. Collaborative Planning 5. Idea Networking 6. Solution Concepts 7. Concepts as Dialectic Decision Criteria 8. Solution Action Plans 9. Paradoxical Consequences 10. Questioning Action Plans 11. Solutions Mapping 12. Conclusion Appendix 1: Networking Statements

Have you ever been asked to critique an article, book, or past project and wondered what exactly was meant by `critique'? This book provides 13 different ways of undertaking a critique. It will help you to confidently use these critique methods to develop your own methods. Each chapter contains sample passages, example critiques and explanations of underlying theory to help you to consolidate your understanding and skills. Reading Critically at University will support undergraduate and postgraduate students across the social sciences, as they master different critique methods. It will also be an excellent resource for all undergraduate study skills modules. SAGE Study Skills are essential study guides for students of all levels. From how to write great essays and succeeding at university, to writing your undergraduate dissertation and doing postgraduate research, SAGE Study Skills help you get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips, resources and videos on study success!