Problem Solving - Part 3

Continuing this series, we are on step 3 of the problem-solving process.

1. Understand the Problem
2. Define the Goals
3. Identify a Course of Action
4. Implement a Solution
5. Continue Improvement

Identify a Course of Action. The obvious solution may not always be the correct solution, and the correct solution may not be obvious. Before implementing a solution, it should be determined what different actions might be taken towards a solution. Each action step may not be a complete solution, but a combination of multiple smaller action steps may solve the problem.

You will need to brainstorm as a group through possible solution steps no matter how minute or far fetched they may seem. At this stage you are just listing possible solutions not yet implementing these solutions or fully thinking through these solutions and what all they may entail. The goal here is not yet to pick the best solution(s), but to just make a list of ideas. This is the stage where there are no wrong answers. Thinking outside the box in this stage is encouraged. A far-fetched solution in this stage could be the best solution later in the problem-solving process.

After listing all the possible solutions, list the cause/effect and pros/cons of each solution to the best of your knowledge. This process will require additional research and trial analysis. You may not know all the effects of a possible solution until it is tried and tested. There are some additional analysis models for solutions that might help you as well such as the SWOT and Impact/Effort Matrix.

S.W.O.T. Analysis

• What are the Strengths of this solution?
• What are the Weaknesses of this solution?
• What are the Opportunities gains by using this solution?
• What are the Threats against using this solution?

Impact/Effort Matrix

A. Rate on a scale of 1-10, what impact will this solution make towards the goals?

B. Rate on a scale of 1-10, what effort will be required for this solution?

C. Rate on a scale of 1-10, how quickly can this solution be implemented?

D. Rate on a scale of 1-10, how costly will this solution be?

Formulate your own formula such as [ 2A + C - 2D - B ] to calculate the score of each solution. Prioritize the solutions with the higher scores. You may need to adjust the formula depending on your projects timeline, financial resources, and available human resources.

Sometimes it is not about getting more resources, but better utilizing what you already have.

Keep in mind during this identifying and prioritizing an action plan of the resources at your disposal. If a solution is beyond your resources, then it will be blocked from implementation. Now, might be a good time to list what resources you do have and return to the beginning of this step to see if there are additional solutions with specific resources in mind. It doesn't matter though how many resourced you have, if you don't know how to use them, it will never be enough. Sometimes it is not about getting more resources, but better utilizing what you already have.

Continue reading Problem Solving - Part 4