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Chapter Two

Lecture 4: The Problem-Solving Models

Objectives:

1- Discuss One of the problem-solving models

2- List the advantages of the Six-step problem solving model
3- Illustrate the tips needed to improve the problem-solving skills

The Problem-Solving Models:

Among the different models dealing with how to solve a problem, like: the
Analytical Problem-Solving Approach (FEMA), the Creative Problem-Solving
Model – Mindtools, the Fred Nickols’ Four-Step Model, the Six-Step Model and
many others. (FEMA) Federal Emergency Management Agency

Although all the models share almost the same steps, only one model is going
to be discussed in this chapter:

The Six-Step Model:

1: Problem Definition:

 Before you are ready to take any steps to solve the problem, first you have
to be sure about what the problem really is. It can be easy to get
distracted by solving a different problem than what is actually causing
distress if it is easier than dealing with the real problem.

 Define or state your issue in as specific terms as possible so it's easy to

understand. To determine the needs of the issue, you might ask yourself: 
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• What factors are contributing to this issue?

• Who are the people involved with the issue?

• When is this issue occurring?

• Where is this issue taking place?

 These questions can clarify information related to the issue to help you and
others understand the issue as much as possible before moving forward
with creating a solution.

There are different ways to define a problem through brainstorming,

interviewing or conducting questionnaires.

2: Problem Analysis:

 Once the problem is defined, you need to think about it from different
perspectives to insure and understand all the dimensions of the problem.

The following questions can be useful to help you analyze the problem:

 1- How is this problem affecting?

 2- How is this problem affecting other people?

 3- Who else is experiencing this problem?

 4- How do other people deal with this problem?

3: Establish Goals:

 Once you looked at the problem from different perspectives, decide what to
be achieved and establish goals. You need to answer the very specific
question – “What is immediate goal?”
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Examples: (on immediate goals)

 1. Improve time management skills

 2. Complete assignments on time

 3. Improve grades

4: Generate Possible Solutions

 Within this stage, the goal is to generate as many solutions as possible.

Frequently a solution might be eliminated initially, but with work it can be
developed into a very effective solution. It can be very helpful to ask what
was done in the past when faced with similar problems and to know how
other people have dealt with similar situations. In addition, approach
friends, family, a counsellor, teachers, books, or the internet, etc. to obtain
ideas for solutions. Be sure to write down all the possibilities so that
you approach this task systematically.
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5: Analyze the Solution:

 Within this stage, it is needed to examine each alternative and write down
both the advantages and disadvantages to each. Some considerations to
keep in mind include:

 1. Is it relevant to situation?

 2. Is it realistic?

 3. Is it manageable?

 4. What are the consequences – both good and bad?

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 5. What is the likelihood that it is going to help reach goal?

6: Implementation:

 The last step is to implement the solution chosen. This step involves
identification of all the steps necessary to implement it, and also on-going
monitoring of the effectiveness of the solution to make sure that it actually
solved the problem.

 *Remember that problem-solving is a cycle – it involves searching for a

solution to a problem that will lead to various possible solutions which
then need to be evaluated. If the problem is solved, then found (establish)
an effective solution. If the problem has not been solved, then start the
process again.

*Advantages of Six-Step Problem Solving Model:

The Six-Step method provides a focused procedure for the problem solving (PS)
group.

• It ensures consistency, as everyone understands the approach to be used.

• By using data, it helps eliminate bias and preconceptions, leading to greater

objectivity.

• It helps to remove divisions and encourages collaborative working.

• It stops PS groups diverging into different problems.

• It also helps PS groups reach consensus

• It eliminates the confusion caused when people use different problem-solving

techniques on the same issue.
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• It makes the decision-making process easier.

• It provides a justifiable solution.

**All six steps are followed in order – as a cycle, beginning with “1. Identify the
Problem.” Each step must be completed before moving on to the next step. The
steps are repeatable. At any point the group can return to an earlier step and
proceed from there.

*Tips to Improve Your Problem- Solving Skills:

If you feel out of your comfort zone when trying to solve a potential problem
and doubt your problem-solving ability, there are plenty of ways to develop
your skillset. Here are some tips for improving your problem-solving approach:

1. Clearly define the problem. It’s hard to solve a nebulous (vague) problem you
never took the time to clearly define. No workplace is perfect, and there are
usually a variety of interrelated problems that can be solved at any one time. If
you find yourself getting overwhelmed and distracted during the problem-
solving process, go back to step one and make sure you are approaching a
singular problem.

2. Focus on the solution. It’s easy to become hyper-focused on the conditions

that created the problem. Shifting your focus away from the current problem to
possible outcomes and solutions can give you a more positive outlook and open
your eyes to new solutions.

3. Agree on a process. If you’re problem-solving as part of a team, it’s very

important that you agree to basic ground rules and procedures before you start
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the problem-solving process. This will streamline (organize & simplify) the process and
help you prevent conflict down the road (in the future).

4. Acquire more technical knowledge in your field:

Depending on your industry, it may be easier to solve problems if you have

strong working technical knowledge. You can achieve more technical
knowledge through additional coursework, training or practice.

5. Seek out opportunities to solve problem:

By putting yourself into new situations, you are more likely to be exposed to
opportunities to solve problem. You may find there are opportunities to
volunteer for new projects in your current role, on another team or outside the
workplace for another organization. (look at other cases and share)

6. Do practices on problem-solving:

Practice and role-play can be useful tools when learning to develop your
problem-solving skills. You can find professional practice books for your
industry and problem-solving scenarios online. Practice how you might solve
those problems and determine if your potential solutions are viable.

7. Observe how others solve problems:

You may have colleagues who are skilled problem solvers. Observing how those
colleagues solve problems can help you improve your own skills. If possible, ask
one of your more experienced colleagues if you can observe their techniques.
Asking relevant questions can be helpful in applying them in your own career.
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8. Be sure to use active listening:

The best problem solvers are great listeners. Problem-solving requires you to
take in a variety of inputs and opinions and carefully analyze them. It’s
important that people involved in the process feel heard.

References:

 Problem Solving Skills Among College Students, 2018 by Moorthi, S.

 Source: http://www.free-management-ebooks.com/news/six-step-problem-
solving-model/

 THIRTEEN PROBLEMSOLVING MODELS, 2020 by Nickols. F.

 - Problem-Solving Skills: Definitions and Examples, 2020 [

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/problem-solving-
skills]