Problem solving

What do you mean by problem?

• A problem means a situation where we need to find solution from a set of
initial conditions
• A problem is a mystery ,a puzzles , unsettled matters that needs to be
dealt with
• Albert Einstein ,”If we had an hour to save the world, he would spend 55
minutes in defining the problem and only 5 minutes finding solution
• We have three ways: problem already happened , problem lie
ahead ,problems prevent from happening
How do we solve problems?
• Data to process to solution
• In initial , identifying pieces of information that is useful- the form of words, tables,
graphs, pictures
• You may need to search for piece of information that solves problem
• Past experience of similar problems helps
Objectives of problems solving
• Understanding the problem solving
• Analyze problems
• Work with problems Owners and stakeholders
• Develop effective problem statements
• Determine causes
Objectives of problem solving
• Simplify complex problems
• Identify and manage risks
• Avoid problem solving traps
Four basic tools for problem solving
• Run chart
• The pareto chart
• Cause and effect diagram
• Casual chain
Basic problem solving steps
• Identify the problem
• Gathering information
• Clarify the problem
• Consider possible solution
• Select best option
• Make a decision and monitor the solution
Essentials in defining a problem
• Rephrase the problem
• Expose and challenge assumption
• Use facts
• Grow your thinking
• Shrink your environment temporarily
Essential elements in analyzing problem
• Look for deficiencies
• Interview and gather data
• Observe as much as you can
• Ask what , not who
• Have reality check
Essentials in defining a problem
• Practice multiple perspectives
• Turn it upside down
• Frame the problem purposely and positively
• Summary
The 4 C’s of problem solving
• Contain the problem
• Find the cause of the problem
• Correct the problem
• Control the problem
Making choices and decisions
• We have seen how problems may involve making choices and decisions
• Making an decision on an action
• Encourage new ideas without criticisms due to new conception and perception
• Build on each other’s ideas
• Use data to facilitate problem solving
Combining skills using imagination
• More difficult problems required combined skills to solve them
• Value of experience recognizes the skills of questions and analyzing them
• It is seen that how imagination come up with solutions to various problems
• It is important to keep alternative solutions to one problem
• Thinking skills helps in improving standard questions
Ingredients for good decision making
• Focus on the most important things
• Don’t decide until you are ready
• Look for positive results after making a decisions
• Consider the negative outcomes
• Look ahead how your decision play over time
Ingredients for good decision making
• Turn big decisions into series of little decision
• Don’t feel you are locked into only one or two alternatives
• If everyone accepts your decision then your in safe end
Decision making traps
• Misdirection
• Sampling
• Bias
• Averages
• selectivity
Decision making traps
• Interpretation
• Jumping to conclusion
• The meaningless difference
• Connotation
• status
Problem solving strategies
• Abstraction
• Brainstorming
• Hypothesis testing
• Lateral thinking
• Means end analysis
Problem solving strategies
• Analogy
• Notice
• Map
• Apply
• Proof
Problem solving strategies
• Reduction
• Trial and error
The problem solving cycle
• Define the problem
• Defining the problem with the help from others
• Defining complex problems
• Check your understanding of the problem
• Prioritize your problems
The problem solving cycle
• Identify your role
• Identify potential causes for the problem
• Try to identify a strategy and a solution
• Select the most feasible solution
• Constant observation
• Check whether or not the problem has been solved
Problem solving for personal issues
• Identify the problem
• Identify the causes of those problems
• Set goals
• Brainstorm
• Choose a solution
Problem solving for personal issues
• Describe the plan
• Review and revise
Improving decision making skills
• Distraction
• Learn new languages
• Exercise
• Diet
• Meditate
• Social life
Improving decisions making skills
• Read
• Explore
Benefits of improving thinking capacity and
decision making
• Idea building
• Team work
• Progress
• Client building
• Better compatibility
Benefits of improving thinking capacity and
decision making
• Bigger reach
• Less misunderstandings
• Better genes
• Conclusion
• Free bonus video
What is critical thinking?
• The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement
• The depth analysis of a problem in order to arrive at the best possible solution
in order to solve it
• A person observing a situations, identifying problem, analyzing it , and at a
conclusive decision to solve it rationally
Aspects of critical thinking
• Arguments
• Analyzing arguments
• Safeguarding the facts
• Evaluation
• Implementation
The process occurs during critical thinking
• Recognition
• Analysis
• Gather information
• Logical analysis
• Arguments
The process occurs during the critical
thinking
• Decision making
• Dedication
• Questions
Applying critical thinking to everyday
problems
• Make the best use of time
• Tackle one thing at a time
• Step by step approach
• Record your progress
• Modify your habits
Applying critical thinking to everyday
problems
• Tackle your autopilot mode
• Change perspective
• Be reasonable/ practiced
• Have a partner
The cultures of problem solving
• There isn’t enough time to solve problems
• Solutions are incomplete
• Problems recur and concede
• Urgency supersedes importance
• Performance drops
• Many problems become crises
The responsible leaders 10 questions
• What is the problem?
• Where is the problem occurring?
• When is the problem occurring?
• Who has the problem?
• What is the scope of problem?
The responsible leaders 10 questions
• What is trend?
• What is your problem statement?
• Is it a change related problem?
• Have you formed a team?
• When can I expect a solution to the problem?
Case study used to problem analysis
• Problem definition
• Problem description
• Determination of changes relative
• Discovery of defect free configuration
• Collections of key information
Case study used to problem analysis
• Testing for most probable cause
• Verification of true root cause
• Implementing the solution
• Implementing the control
A structured approach to problem
prevention
• Define high risks
• Define problems , failures and solution
• Calculation of total risk
• Implement preventive measures
• Finalize and implement
Failing at problem solving
• Treatment of symptoms instead of root cause
• People lack the basic skills necessary for problem solving
• Failure to look at problem holistically
• Failure to involve the right people
• Failure to use structured and systematically approach
The DNA of good problem solver
• Being objective
• Being analytical
• Being creative
• Being dedication and commitment
• Being curious
The DNA of good problem solver
• Having courage
• Having sense of adventure
• Being enthusiastic
• Being patient
• Being vigilant
The problem prevention roadmap
• Defining the high risk or vulnerable areas of your organization
• Defining the potential problems ,failures mode, and their effects
• Identify the highest risk problems
• Determining the most probable cause of the highest risk problem
• Developing a preventive measures plan
• Implementing the preventive measures plan
Types of problems
• The problems with problems
• Hybrid problems
• The DNA of problems
• Change related problems
• Chronic problems
Toyota’s practical problem solving
• Initial problem perception
• Clarify the problem
• Locate area/point of cause
• Investigation of the root causes by using 5 whys
• Develop counter measures
Toyota’s practical problem solving
• Evaluate
• standardize
Solutions not problems
• Problem solving is about the use of real life situations
• The fundamental skills are required for it
• Learning to solve problems develops skills
Bibliography
• Problem solving and decision making
• The problem-solving , problem prevention , and decision-making
guide
• Problem solving – best strategies to decision making ,critical thinking
and positive thinking
• Thinking skills ,critical thinking and problem solving
• The creative problem solving & decision making sills
Thank you