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Effective Problem Solving Techniques

The document discusses problem solving, defining it as the steps taken to achieve specific goals that are currently blocked by a lack of resources or knowledge. It categorizes problems into closed (maintenance) and open-ended (achievement) types and outlines a simple approach to solving them, which includes recognizing, defining, evaluating, selecting, and implementing solutions. Additionally, it highlights the importance of solving problems in organizations to avoid negative consequences such as demotivation and loss of resources.

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Sam Saader
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2 views11 pages

Effective Problem Solving Techniques

The document discusses problem solving, defining it as the steps taken to achieve specific goals that are currently blocked by a lack of resources or knowledge. It categorizes problems into closed (maintenance) and open-ended (achievement) types and outlines a simple approach to solving them, which includes recognizing, defining, evaluating, selecting, and implementing solutions. Additionally, it highlights the importance of solving problems in organizations to avoid negative consequences such as demotivation and loss of resources.

Uploaded by

Sam Saader
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

PROBLEM SOLVING

INTRODUCTION
A SIMPLE LIST OF PROBLEMS

How will I become a better problem solver?


When will I get married?
How will I pay my utility bills?
Why can’t we get a license to export our goods?
What does ecclesiastical mean?
How can I stop my children from being bullied in school?
What is the square root of 9?
How will I get that promotion?
How will I become financially independent?
WHY ARE THESE PROBLEMS?

• They all have a specific goal whether it is to


be “financially independent”, “married” or to
know “the square root of 9”.

• And, in each case, ‘the solver’ is not


immediately able to achieve the goal because
it is blocked through a lack of resources or
knowledge.
WHAT IS A PROBLEM?

• Problem solving therefore is simply defined as “steps we take to achieve a


specific goal”
TWO TYPES OF PROBLEMS

Problems can be broadly divided into two


groups:

1. Those where the current situation is not what


was expected. These are known as closed or
maintenance problems.

2. Those where we want to change our current


situation in some way but there is an obstacle
preventing us doing so. These are referred to as
open-ended or achievement problems.
WHY SOLVE PROBLEMS?

• In an organization where problems exist but remain unsolved the following


can occur:

• De-motivation of staff

• Loss of customers

• Waste of resources

• Reduction of profit

• Compromised growth / survival potential


A SIMPLE APPROACH

Consider a very simple approach to solving problems:

• The first step is recognizing that a problem exists


• The second step is defining or representing the
problem
• The third step is evaluating possible solutions
• The fourth step is selecting the possible solution
• The fifth step is implementing a solution and
determining whether it was successful or not
PROBLEM SOLVING
TECHNIQUES
PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUES

• To solve a problem there are two main issues that need to


be clarified:
• Where exactly you are at the present moment

• Where exactly you want the problem solving journey to bring


you

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