Critical Thinking and Computer LogicAbstractThe purpose of this article is to discuss a decision-making tool or technique as discussed in week three. The article will contain a discussion of the tool or technique and an application example. It will also include an example of when and when not to use the tool or technique. The document will conclude with a brief summary. Tools and Techniques Document Individuals, organizations and social groups are often faced with the challenge of solving difficult problems and making important, strategic decisions. For a group to be successful, they must find ways to creatively solve problems and focus on achieving goals and achieving results. There are many individual and group techniques that can be used to identify and resolve problems. These techniques are thinking strategies intended to bring out the creative vigor of individuals and generate ideas and approaches for solving problems and making effective decisions. (Hughes, 2003) An effective procedure known as the Charette Procedure is a group idea generation and priority setting tool. Its strength is the ability to address multiple issues simultaneously in a highly interactive group environment. The Charette Procedure involves several small groups discussing parts of the issue(s) at the same time generating as many ideas as possible. Then their ideas are passed on to the next group for further development, expansion and, in the long term, prioritization. The Charette Procedure is especially useful when a group has decided what they want to do, but is unsure of all the details involved in the process of achieving the goal(s). This tool is very effective in several ways. It can address multiple issues at once and encourages active participation from group members. May share the task of managing the group(s) among a variety of members. This allows participants to take an active role in leading the group(s). Can build on ideas generated by others while keeping the dialogue positive and interesting. (Tague, 2004) The Charette Procedure process is quite detailed, but very rewarding. First, participants are divided into small groups, either by numbering or some other method. Each group must select a single recorder and is then assigned a discussion topic or question. If there are many small groups, some groups may receive the same discussion topic or question.