Problem-solving is the way by which solutions are enlarging to remove an obstacle to achieving an ultimate goal. Problems in need of solutions range from basic personal issues of “how do I turn on this appliance?’ to more complex topics in the business and academic fields. Simple problems have one issue, while complex problems have multiple obstacles that simultaneously need solutions. One can’t overcome the obstacle when there is a lack of necessary resources or knowledge to attain the goals. Micro and macro problems arise constantly and therefore, problem solving is a vital part of life. Not everyone can solve a problem on their own.
Common Barriers
Common barriers to problem solving are mental constructs that impede our ability to correctly solve problems. These barriers prevent people from solving problems in the most efficient manner possible. Five of the most common processes and factors that researchers have identified as barriers to problem-solving are confirmation bias, mental set, functional fixedness, unnecessary constraints, and irrelevant information.
Effective problem solving is one of the key attributes that separate great leaders from average ones.
Problem Solving Steps
Step 1: Identify the Problem– Problem identification requires the use of an appropriate measure or assessment tool to determine whether a problem exists. By defining problems properly, you make them easier to solve, which means saving time, money, and resources.
Step 2: Analyze the Problem– Problem analysis, therefore, involves identifying the overriding problem. And also establishing the causes and effects related to that problem. This analysis will ensure that root causes are identified and addressed in the project design. Problem analysis is steady on identifying cause and effect. However, it can be very difficult to determine what is the cause and what is the impact.
Step 3: Describe the Problem– The problem description should have a concise description of the facts that need to be classified. A problem can be considered as a difference between the actual situation and the desired situation. This means that in order to identify a problem the team must know where it is meant to be. And have a clear understanding of where it currently is in relation to the perceived problem.
Step 4: Look for Root Causes– Root Cause Analysis is a valuable process for understanding and solving a problem. Figure out what negative events are occurring. Then, look at the complex systems around those problems, and identify key points of failure. Finally, determine solutions to address those key points or root causes. The root cause is the core issue that sets the entire cause-and-effect reaction that ultimately leads to the problem(s).
Step 5: Develop Alternate Solutions– The main aim of developing alternative solutions is to have the best possible decision out of the available alternative courses of action. In developing alternative solutions the manager comes across creative or original solutions to the problems. However, evaluating alternative solutions involves analysis, discussion, and review. Iterative cycles of analysis are sometimes necessary. Supporting analyses, experimentation, prototyping, piloting, or simulations maybe want to substantiate scoring and conclusions.
Step 6: Implement the Solution– Implementation is the culmination of all your work in solving a problem and requires careful attention to detail. There are three basic stages that involve planning and preparing to implement the solution. These are implementing and monitoring the action. Reviewing and analyzing the success of the action. An implementation plan—is also known as a strategic plan. It outlines the steps your team should take when accomplishing a shared goal or objective. Moreover, this plan combines strategy, process, and action and will include all parts of the project from scope to budget and beyond.
Step 7: Measure the Results– Once your problem-solving strategy is enacted, then the most important final step is the learning process. This occurs through purposeful evaluation. You should know how you will measure progress and success. And for that, you must have a plan for how frequently those measurements will occur. Know what data will be necessary to measure progress, and have a process in place to track the data acquired.
If you have carefully followed all of the steps of problem-solving, you should have a clearly defined problem and solution and know exactly what you need to measure to avoid this issue.
