(SHORT
NOTES FROM PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS:
Problems are something that nobody don't
particularly like. They're time-consuming. And they never seem to go away! Good problem solving skills are fundamentally
important to be successful in your career.
Most of us try to eliminate them as
quickly as possible when faced with problems. You need to be systematic and logical in your
approach to be an effective problem-solver
Once you've completed the quiz, we'll
direct you to tools and resources that can help you make the most of your
problem-solving skills.
Problem solving tips:
o to view problems as opportunities to make exciting
and necessary change
o approach problem solving systematically
o structured problem-solving process is important
o take time to understand the problem
o understand the criteria for a good decision
o generate some good options
o approach problems systematically
o cover the essentials each time
o make decision that is well though out, well planned,
and well executed
The steps, tools and strategies to use
for each stage of the problem-solving process:
Step 1: Find the Problem
o look actively for problems – even when things seem
to be running fine
o Proactive problem solving helps you avoid
emergencies and allows you to be calm and in control when issues arise
o Techniques:
o
PEST Analysis
§ helps pick up changes in the environment that you
should be paying attention to
§ watch changes in customer needs and market dynamics
§ monitor trends that are relevant to your industry.
o
Risk Analysis
o
Failure Modes and Effects Analysis
o
After Action Reviews
o
Prioritization
o
Pareto Analysis
Step 2: Find the Facts
o research the problem thoroughly
Step 3: Define the Problem
o define the problem clearly and completely
o establish specific boundaries for the problem
o stay focused on the main issues
o tool:
o
CATWOE
o
Cause and Effect Analysis
Step 4: Find Ideas
o start generating ideas for a solution
o be flexible when approaching a problem
o see it from as many perspectives as possible
o Look for patterns or common elements in different
parts of the problem
o use metaphors and analogies to help analyze the
problem
o discover similarities to other issues
o think of solutions based on those similarities
o tools:
o
Traditional brainstorming
o
reverse brainstorming
o Where appropriate, involve people with different
viewpoints to expand the volume of ideas generated.
Step 5: Select and Evaluate
o determine the criteria for a good solution
o Decide the elements needed for a realistic and
practical solution
o think about the criteria use to choose between potential solutions.
o Tools:
o
Paired Comparison Analysis
o
Decision Matrix Analysis
o
Risk Analysis
Step 6: Plan
o plan and prepare
o prepare to roll out the proposed solution
o tools:
o
Action Plans
o
Change Management
o
Impact Analysis
o
Force Field
o
Go/No-Go Decision
Step 7: Sell the Idea
o convince other stakeholders that your solution is
the best one
o make sure you've considered all the consequences
o listen to what people say, and make changes as
necessary
Step 8: Act
o move on to the implementation stage
o This action stage is an end, but it's also a
beginning
Problem solving is an exceptionally
important workplace skill. Being a
competent and confident problem solver will create many opportunities.
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