How do you apply problem solving skills to different domains or contexts?

1 Identify the problem

The first step of the problem solving cycle is to identify the problem that you want to solve. This means defining the situation, the goal, and the obstacles that prevent you from reaching the goal. You can use questions such as: What is the current state? What is the desired state? What are the gaps or barriers? How can you measure the problem? You can also use tools such as brainstorming, mind mapping, or SWOT analysis to generate and organize your thoughts.

3 Implement the solution

The third step of the problem solving cycle is to implement the solution that you have chosen. This means planning and executing the actions that will lead you to the goal. You can use questions such as: What are the steps and resources needed to implement the solution? Who is responsible for each step? How will you monitor and adjust the process? You can also use tools such as action plan, Gantt chart, or SMART goals to organize and track your progress.

4 Review the results

The fourth and final step of the problem solving cycle is to review the results of your solution. This means evaluating the outcomes, measuring the impact, and identifying the lessons learned. You can use questions such as: Did the solution solve the problem? How did you measure the results? What worked well and what didn't? What can you improve for the next time? You can also use tools such as feedback, survey, or reflection to collect and analyze the data.

5 Communicate your problem solving

Besides following the problem solving cycle, you also need to communicate your problem solving to others. This means sharing your problem, solution, and results with the relevant stakeholders, such as your team, your boss, your clients, or your audience. You can use questions such as: Who needs to know about your problem solving? What is the purpose and message of your communication? What is the best format and channel for your communication? You can also use tools such as presentation, report, or infographic to convey your information.

6 Improve your problem solving skills

Problem solving is a skill that you can improve with practice and feedback. You can use questions such as: How do you approach problems in different domains or contexts? What are the challenges and opportunities that you face? How do you learn from your successes and failures? You can also use tools such as self-assessment, peer review, or mentorship to enhance your problem solving skills.