In today's class we delved
deeper into Problem Solving and Decision matrix
A thorough process
guides you through each stage of the problem solving journey, from identifying
the problem to implementing a working solution. This helps to ensure that your
solutions are creative, robust and well considered.
The problem solving is systematic process and there are no shortcuts.
The problem solving is systematic process and there are no shortcuts.
AN INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROCESS
The ten problem
solving stages that we will work through in a project, are as follows:
·
Step 1: Identify
the Problem : Understanding the type of problem, and if the
situation is even causing a problem, is the first step.
·
Step 2: Define the
Problem: When the problem seems obvious, it is easy to skip
this most important step. The more carefully you define the problem, the more
effective your efforts will be in finding the best solution.
·
Step 3: Deciding If
And When To Act: Sometimes the easiest way to solve a problem is to
decide that it is not actually a problem! Hence the great quote: “According to
my calculations, you do not have a problem…” Whilst this approach is not always
valid, in Step 3, you will learn in which circumstances it can be legitimately
applied.
·
Step 4: Understand
Everyone’s Interests: An organisational problem will typically impact on
many people, including investors, managers, staff, shareholders, customers and
suppliers. By understanding the interests and needs of these different groups,
you will have more support for your efforts and your solution will be more
readily accepted.
·
Step 5: Develop
Alternatives: Often, defining a problem points directly to its
solution, however it is important to resist grasping at the first or most
obvious solution, particularly if the problem has been unsuccessfully tackled
before.
·
Step 6: Analyse the
Risks: Any solution carries both expected benefits and
risks, because implementing a solution requires change. By understanding the
risks involved, you can make an informed decision about how to move forwards.
·
Step 7: Analyse the
Alternatives : Having developed possible solutions and assessed
their relative risks, you can now select your preferred solution.
·
Step 8: Sell the
Solution: Solutions to complex problems often involve
compromise, which means that not everyone involved will agree with your choice
of ‘best’ solution. In order to gain support, you may have to sell your
solution to the people or groups involved.
·
Step 9: Implement
the Solution: Implementing the solution requires focus,
dedication, care and tact. This stage may require testing the solution on
prototypes and models prior to a full scale implementation; all part of
managing the risk of the solution.
·
Step 10:
Evaluation: In any complex system, changing one part affects
the entire system in ways that may not be predictable. Careful monitoring,
evaluation and adjustment are required to ensure that the solution is effective
and long lasting.
Root cause analysis is another method of solving the problem. With the help of Fishbone diagram given above.
Root cause analysis is another method of solving the problem. With the help of Fishbone diagram given above.
I’ve found it
useful to bear three points in mind when thinking about your overall approach
to the problem solving process:
1.
If you find that you’re not making
progress at a particular stage of the cycle, that’s a good indication that you
need to go back a stage. It could be that the problem definition isn’t quite
right, or it could be that you don’t have the right stakeholders on board. Taking a step back, both literally and
metaphorically, will help you to move forwards.
2.
Start with a positive outlook. The
first thing you should do when faced with a difficult problem is to start with
a positive outlook. Sometimes our first reaction is to fear the unknown, which
is entirely natural. However, I’ve realised over the years that it is the
unknown that has given us, as individuals and as the human race, the curiosity
to try new things and aim for the stars. Don’t
fear the problem itself. Look at it as an opportunity.
3.
Approach the problem with an open
mind. An old saying goes, “If the only tool you have is a hammer, everything
becomes a nail”. The way you have done things in the past may not always work
for all situations and there are often many solutions to a given problem. When
faced with a difficult problem, do not assume you know the answer at the start.
Stop and take the time to understand what the problem is before applying a
solution. Be open to all possibilities and do not presume that every problem is
a nail.