CyberKnowledge Systems (CKS) has announced the release of a software tool for general conflict resolution and the implementation of organisational transformation initiatives, such as employment equity. The tool, Decision Explorer, has been developed by academics at the universities of Bath and Strathclyde and by Banxia Software in conjunction with major organisations. It is distributed and supported in South Africa by Pretoria-based CKS, which provides organisational diagnostics and knowledge management services.
"This tool is particularly relevant to South Africa since it provides an invaluable aid to conflict resolution and understanding in a large variety of situations, including policy formulation, labour disputes, organisational transformation, employment equity implementation and developing multi-cultural environments," says Mohamed Madhi, MD of CKS. "The appreciation of multiple perspectives and diverse opinions is of fundamental importance to the future of this country`s competitiveness and the use of technology to promote this ethic is a significant contribution in this regard."
Decision Explorer is a proven tool for managing "soft" issues - the qualitative information that surrounds complex or uncertain situations, Madhi explains. "It allows one to capture thoughts and ideas in detail, to explore them and gain new understanding and insight.
"The result is a fresh perspective and time saved through increased productivity, release of creativity and a better focus. It also fits in neatly with our desire to provide knowledge-engineered solutions to complex problems."
When dealing with complex situations, Madhi maintains it`s easy to overlook important details, but with Decision Explorer all issues remain visible and don`t have to be repeated. "When a solution is arrived at, the decision-making processes behind it will be clear and traceable, and all involved should be able to identify a contribution.
"Generally, a feeling of ownership is gained from this process, which makes it more likely that the solution will be carried out. Decision maps can be about anything - from possible solutions to everyday problems, or the future strategic direction of large organisations, through to formulation of government policy."
Madhi points out that Decision Explorer has hundreds of major international users. "Whether you use Decision Explorer as a personal tool or as the focus for group discussion, the views of all involved parties can be recorded. "It works with ideas, not hard numbers. None of the expertise is lost, and contradictory and opposing views are captured, explored and worked through," Madhi adds.
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