Systematic Problem Solving Strategies For You

 

Problem Solving 

A systematic process which defines a problematic situation (where there is a gap between actual and expected or the situation is vague, or there is something that is unsatisfactory) and identifies the problem as an opportunity for which a resolution or solution is needed to be implemented by an individual or group and which finally, and crucially should be worthwhile solving.

It is very important to identify and use the most suitable strategy and tools to solve a problem. For that, we need to identify different problem-solving strategies and tools.

Different Problem Solving Strategies 

• Road Mapping
• Brainstorming
• Divide and Conquer
• Lateral thinking
• Trial and Error
• Method of focal objects
• Means-ends analysis
• Morphological analysis
• Hypothesis testing
• Cause analysis

Problem Solving Tools Used in These Strategies  

• Kepner Tregoe Problem solving
• Six Sigma Tools
• 5 Whys
• Fishbone diagram
• Consensus Decision making
• TQM Tools
• Lean Manufacturing Principles
• 5 Step Approach
• Failure Mode effects Analysis (FMEA)
• 8D Problem Solving
• Cause and Effect Model
• TRIZ

Picking the Right Issue

We have to identify the right issue with the biggest impact, arise again and again and effect for financial side. After that, we need to focus on solving it. The Pareto Chart is useful to do this. It helps to identify and visualize the biggest issue and to focus on it. We have to prioritize and solve the issues one by one.

Problem Solving Strategies Road Map

01. Identify the Problem

It can be easy to get lost in the sea of issues and problem in an organization. But we need to keep it simple, and it is the aim. Keep it simple as, Measure the problem, understand the process, understand the actual issue, how many times it happens and generic factors, etc. Tools like QCPC Charts, Pareto Diagrams can be used for a simple and quick understanding of the problem, its occurrences, and generic reasons.

02. Identify the Causes

The objective is to identify the causes and symptoms separately. Process flow charts, scatter Diagrams, Histograms, Fishbone Diagrams will help to find the origin place of the issue.   

03. Brainstorm Alternative Solutions

To get more ideas we can use a group. Discuss the issue and get all the ideas. We need to use one or more sessions to do this process. Discussing time depends on the size of the issue.

04. Select the Most Appropriate Solution

We need to have a good idea about top possible causes and most suitable solutions with the help of the previous step.

05. Implement and check solution

In here the implementation of those solutions, analyzing the impact and measuring will be done. Through that, we can ensure that the cause is eliminated and the problem is solved. If we identify that the problem is still there, we need to do the brainstorming again and repeat the process again.

Impact To The Business

• The development and implementation of a road map are mainly carried out with the intention of anticipating market and technological changes.
• It will bring out a strategy that will reinforce the survival of the organization or achievement of a laid-out vision.
• It can also be applied on a regular basis to check whether the organization is on track to fulfill the vision as it can be suggested to update the road maps frequently.
• It is a powerful tool for communicating main strategic information to both internal and external stakeholders.
• It will help to identify the needs, strengths, weaknesses and even opportunities. 

For Further Knowledge; 

https://www.educational-business-articles.com/problem-solving-strategies/