How Mathematics can support Problem-Solving
FEATURED PAPER
By Ramona Maduta, PfMP®, PgMP®, SCPM®, PMP®
Oradea, Romania
Abstract
Today there is a paradox of augmented technology that declares support in solving problems but complicates problem-solving by adding complexity and uncertainty in business. How do managers respond to this challenge? Do they use appropriate tools to make decisions? This paper presents the HORSE Tool (Hypotheses Organized Responded Selected Executed), an original Tool built for selecting the best solution to a problem given a specific problem complexity and context. The selection of solution is made using predefined criteria and a scoring ternary-based algorithm 1-0-1/2 (True-False-Partial true) for judging the criteria. In a world of computers governed by Booleans 1-0 (True-False), the author encourages managers to stay on-the-loop, controlling the decision making in problem-solving. Unlike the Trojan Horse that is smart but sly, the Ternary HORSE presented in this paper is based on critical-thinking and honesty.
Figure 1. The Ternary HORSE
Keywords: Problem-Solving; Decision Making; Project Management; Complex Systems
- Problem-Solving Dilemmas
1.1. Business Context
In a world with increased Complexity and Uncertainty we are faced with an overwhelming rate of problems and decision-making needs.
Surprisingly or not, the technology thought to support us in solving these problems is adding complexity and uncertainty instead of dealing with it. Technology (especially Artificial Intelligence) is sharpening our computational power on one side, but on the other side is adding problems related to data quality, confidentiality, ethics, jobs displacement, burnouts. Managers are trying to balance the impact of these problems by applying soft skills techniques such as active listening, emotional intelligence, empathy, empowering and motivational techniques.
But the author’s opinion is that what is missing in many organizations is a structured approach on problem-solving, starting from process and associated tools, and including specific problem-solving skills.
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How to cite this paper: Maduta, R. (2026). A HORSE in a world of Booleans: How Mathematics can support Problem-Solving; PM World Journal, Vol. XV, Issue IV, April. Available online at https://pmworldjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/pmwj163-Apr2026-Maduta-A-HORSE-in-a-World-of-Booleans.pdf
About the Author
Ramona Maduta
Oradea, Romania
Ramona Maduta is a Stanford-certified project manager and holds credentials in project, program, portfolio, change management and PMI authorized training: PMP®, PgMP®, PfMP®, MoP®, Change Management Registered Practitioner, PMI-ATP Instructor.
Ramona has 25 years of experience in the Project Management field, including 12 years in an Enterprise PMO at COMAU, a multinational corporation. She contributed to major cross-country business initiatives for transforming systems, processes, and tools, served as Global Project Portfolio Analyst and ran a Global PM Academy with passion and dedication. Currently she is running her own consultancy and training company, TAGORE. She created several courses and trained more than 900 people internationally in project management and related domains.
Ramona was a Public Speaker at several Management Conferences in the USA, Germany, Spain and Japan and is the Author of several innovative business methods meant to support organizations & professionals in boosting their operative performance: Organizational Surfing1 (2016), Empathetical Transformation Model2 (2023), HORSE Problem-Solving3 (2024/ structured 2026)
Ramona Maduta speaks 5 languages: English, German, Italian, Romanian, and French. She can be contacted at rmaduta@gmail.com or on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramona-maduta/
