STEPS TO SOLVING A PROBLEM

All over, we have different models for solving problems. Problem solving is a process that involves discovering, analysing, and effecting changes. The major aim of solving a problem is to overcome obstacles and offer best solution to issues and challenges.

The strategy to use in problem solving depends largely on the situation, as each situation is unique in itself. Creativity and insight are good tools; in most cases, you are better off learning first hand everything you can about the situation, and then following it up with factual knowledge.

Identify what the problem is: This was talked about in our previous article ‘No Problems to Solve, No Success’, where we talked about giving the problem a name. Identify the problem or the source of the problem. As easy as it sound, it usually is the most difficult step because when you mistakenly identify the source of the problem wrongly, all attempts to solve it will prove ineffective and useless.

Explore and Get Information: Once you can effectively identify what the problem is, you then define it so that you can develop the strategy you need to solve it. Now is the time to gather your information. Get as much information as you can about different methods you can work with. What do you know, what do you not know? The more information that is available, the more prepared we will be when it is time to come up with an accurate solution.

Pick Your Strategy: Whatever strategy you come up with will be dependent on the information you have on the situation and your preferences. Have several strategies in place; it is always good to postpone the selection of a solution from the various alternatives till you have all possible alternatives you can work with.

Implement and Allocate Resources: Pick the best solution and implement it; allocate resources. Resources here can be money, time, material, human, etc.

Monitor Progress: As you work towards your solution, you need to monitor your progress. If you are not making adequate progress in your solution, you would need to re-evaluate your approach and look at other strategies.

Evaluate Outcome: Now that you have effectively solved the solution, it is very important you review your result to know if this is the best solution for the problem for posterity. Note what worked, and what didn’t for this particular problem. Evaluation will enable you make predictions on what strategy to use in future. You might need to do something extra if the solution is not the best. The evaluation carried out can either be immediate or after a period of time.

While these steps will work if followed, you might sometimes skip steps, or go through steps again and again till the desired result is achieved. Experience is always the best. When faced with a challenge, consider that someone else had gone through same thing and find out how they tackled it; inculcate their solution into yours.

This problem has been solved, but there will be more ahead. Be ready!