Problem-solving skills

Introduction

Solving problems is a constant in both businesses and everyday life. Although it is desired, a rational approach is challenging. Problem-solving scenarios are frequently complicated, with contradicting information, a lack of data, and challenges that affect the people involved on an emotional and political level. The principles of gathering and analyzing the information that is available, taking into account alternatives and selecting the best option based on the available evidence, as well as an analysis of the context and an assessment of the potential consequences, remain the same even though it is impossible to apply neat, logical, and sequential methods.

The process of diagnosing an issue's root cause, choosing a solution to the problem, and ensuring that it doesn't happen again is known as problem-solving. You will frequently have to respond to issues as they arise, but if possible, taking a proactive approach is preferable. This entails anticipating potential issues and handling them ahead of time by taking proactive steps using the standard approaches to problems and problem-solving described below. 

Improving analytical ability

We can improve problem-solving skills by following a few basic approaches.

Improve your analytical ability

By breaking the problem down into smaller components, any complex issue may be handled. To understand the source of an issue, Drucker (1995) advises beginning with an opinion.

As far as they are immediately expressed in the open and then compared to reality, opinions are excellent beginning points.

Being creative

A logical answer to the problem may not be the best one. Use creative thinking to dream about a new approach.

Keep it simple

A basic practice of problem-solving is being simple. Occam’s razor principle says, ‘entities are not to be multiplied without necessity.

Focus on implementation

The problem has not been solved until a final decision has been made. Everyone must be contributed to the process of finding a solution to a problem.

Twelve steps of problem-solving steps    

1. Define the situation- Identify what has gone wrong and what is about to go wrong.
2. Specify objectives- define what should be achieved in the present or future.
3. Develop hypotheses- making hypotheses about what made the problem happen.
4. Get facts- Find the facts related to the problem. Always filter and identify facts with verifiable sources.
5. Analyze the facts-determine what is relevant and what is not. Investigate the cause of the problem. Do not focus on symptoms rather than roots.
6. Identify possible courses of action- spell out what each involves.
7. Evaluate other courses of action- assess the extent to which they are likely to achieve the objectives and the cost of implementing any practical difficulties that might emerge.
8. Weight and decide- identify what is the most practical solution.
9. Decide on the objective- setting goals for the development process.
10. Adopt a ‘means-end’ approach where appropriate- in complicated situations with long-term usages.
11. Plan implementation- prepare a timetable and list out the resources.
12. Implement- Assess progress and evaluate success. Remember that a problem is not solved until a decision has been implemented.

References

Drucker, P (1995) The Practice of Management, London, Heinmann

Follett, M P (1924) Creative Experience, New York, Longmans Green

Pfeffer, J (1996) When it comes to ‘best practices, why do smart organizations occasionally do dumb things”, Organizational Dynamics, Summer, pp-33-44

 

    

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