PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES

WHAT IS PROBLEM SOLVING?

Quality Glossary Definition: Problem solving

Problem solving is the act of defining a problem; determining the cause of the problem; identifying,
prioritizing, and selecting alternatives for a solution; and implementing a solution.

 The problem-solving process

 Problem solving resources

Problem Solving Chart

THE PROBLEM-SOLVING PROCESS

In order to effectively manage and run a successful organization, leadership must guide their employees
and develop problem-solving techniques. Finding a suitable solution for issues can be accomplished by
following the basic four-step problem-solving process and methodology outlined below.

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PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES

TABLE

STEP CHARATERISTICS

1. Define the problem  Differentiate fact from opinion

 Specify underlying causes
 Consult each faction involved for information
 State the problem specifically
 Identify what standard or expectation is violated
 Determine in which process the problem lies
 Avoid trying to solve the problem without data.
2. Generate alternative  Postpone evaluating alternatives initially
solutions
 Include all involved individuals in the generating of
 Alternatives.
 Specify alternatives consistent with organizational goals
 Specify short- and long-term alternatives
 Brainstorm on others' ideas
 Seek alternatives that may solve the problem
3. Evaluate and select an  Evaluate alternatives relative to a target standard
alternative
 Evaluate all alternatives without bias
 Evaluate alternatives relative to established goals
 Evaluate both proven and possible outcomes
 State the selected alternative explicitly
4. Implement and follow up  Plan and implement a pilot test of the chosen alternative
on the solution
 Gather feedback from all affected parties
 Seek acceptance or consensus by all those affected
 Establish ongoing measures and monitoring
 Evaluate long-term results based on final solution

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 PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES

1. Define the problem

Diagnose the situation so that your focus is on the problem, not just its symptoms. Helpful problem-solving
techniques include using flowcharts to identify the expected steps of a process and cause-and-effect
diagrams to define and analyze root causes.

The sections below help explain key problem-solving steps. These steps support the involvement of
interested parties, the use of factual information, comparison of expectations to reality, and a focus on root
causes of a problem. You should begin by:

 Reviewing and documenting how processes currently work (i.e., who does what, with what information,
using what tools, communicating with what organizations and individuals, in what time frame, using
what format).
 Evaluating the possible impact of new tools and revised policies in the development of your "what
should be" model.

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 PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES

2. Generate alternative solutions

Postpone the selection of one solution until several problem-solving alternatives have been proposed.
Considering multiple alternatives can significantly enhance the value of your ideal solution. Once you have
decided on the "what should be" model, this target standard becomes the basis for developing a road map for
investigating alternatives. Brainstorming and team problem-solving techniques are both useful tools in this
stage of problem solving.

Many alternative solutions to the problem should be generated before final evaluation. A common mistake
in problem solving is that alternatives are evaluated as they are proposed, so the first acceptable solution is
chosen, even if it’s not the best fit. If we focus on trying to get the results we want, we miss the potential for
learning something new that will allow for real improvement in the problem-solving process.

3. Evaluate and select an alternative

Skilled problem solvers use a series of considerations when selecting the best alternative. They consider
the extent to which:

 A particular alternative will solve the problem without causing other unanticipated problems.
 All the individuals involved will accept the alternative.
 Implementation of the alternative is likely.
 The alternative fits within the organizational constraints.

4. Implement and follow up on the solution

Leaders may be called upon to direct others to implement the solution, "sell" the solution, or facilitate the
implementation with the help of others. Involving others in the implementation is an effective way to gain
buy-in and support and minimize resistance to subsequent changes.

Regardless of how the solution is rolled out, feedback channels should be built into the implementation.
This allows for continuous monitoring and testing of actual events against expectations. Problem solving, and
the techniques used to gain clarity, are most effective if the solution remains in place and is updated to
respond to future changes.

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PROBLEM SOLVING RESOURCES

You can also search articles, case studies, and publications for problem solving resources.

1. Books

Root Cause Analysis: The Core of Problem Solving and Corrective Action

The Quality Toolbox

Introduction To 8D Problem Solving: Including Practical Applications and Examples

2. Articles

One Good Idea: Some Sage Advice (Quality Progress) The person with the problem just wants it to go away
quickly, and the problem-solvers also want to resolve it in as little time as possible because they have other
responsibilities. Whatever the urgency, effective problem-solvers have the self-discipline to develop a
complete description of the problem.

Diagnostic Quality Problem Solving: A Conceptual Framework And Six Strategies (Quality Management
Journal) This paper contributes a conceptual framework for the generic process of diagnosis in quality
problem solving by identifying its activities and how they are related.

Weathering The Storm (Quality Progress) Even in the most contentious circumstances, this approach
describes how to sustain customer-supplier relationships during high-stakes problem solving situations to
actually enhance customer-supplier relationships.

The Right Questions (Quality Progress) All problem solving begins with a problem description. Make the
most of problem solving by asking effective questions.

Solving the Problem (Quality Progress) Brush up on your problem-solving skills and address the primary
issues with these seven methods.

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