Six Steps for Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is an important skill because we are faced with problems every

day. Problem-solving is the process of finding solutions to difficult or complex issues.
We solve problems on our own but we also seek support and guidance when solving
problems. A group or team can be a more productive way to solve problems by allowing
for more perspectives. Organization makes possible, better outcomes from the time and
energy we dedicate to problem-solving in groups. However, this does not come
naturally. The following provides us with a script for more efficiently solving problems in
groups.
Step One: Define the Problem
In this step, you explore the nature of the problem, its scope, and who is affected by it.
First, group members must come to a shared understanding of key terms embedded in
the problem. For example, if your group is asked to propose a solution for improving
retention at Indiana State University, does everyone in your group know what is meant
by “retention” and appreciate the impact of retention on student learning? Next, group
members need to determine potential issues of fact (statistical other data, comparative
examples, etc.), value (determining who is impacted by the problem and who should
benefit from your solution), and policy (what should be done). Finally, develop a
research plan to learn more about the problem and answer question raised during this
first step. Some of this research you can do during your first meeting, however, most of
this research will be accomplished before your next meeting.

Step Two: Analyze the Problem

For step two, group members share the results of their research efforts. What do you
now know about the problem you have been tasked with solving and those impacted by
the problem? During this group discussion, it is often the case that new questions that
need answers arise. Make a plan to follow-up with these questions. Next, your group
needs to decide on your problem-solving direction. What set of criteria (goals) must any
given solution to this problem achieve? Or, what are the non-negotiable
accomplishments that must occur?

Step Three: Generate Possible Solutions

The goal is step three is to generate ideas that may contribute to the formulation of
possible solutions. It is at this point where you engage in a brainstorming activity or the
generating of ideas related to your discussion. Your group can set its own rules, or
norms, for how your brainstorming activity will work. For example, will you allow
interruptions or criticisms during the process? Why, or why not? Will you take turns
during the brainstorming activity or let it be a free-for-all? Will someone take notes?

Step Four: Evaluate Possible Solutions

After your group has generated possible solutions, next you systematically evaluate
each of these. Determine three or four of the best ideas generated from the
brainstorming activity. Next, apply your criteria established in step two to your list of
possible solutions. Finally, what are the “plusses” and “minuses” associated with each
possible solution? You may also want to revisit your discussion on issues of fact, value,
and policy as well as any comparative examples discussed in steps one or two.

Step Five: Select Your Solution

In this step, you decide upon a solution that your group believes best solves the
problem. Given the criteria, plusses and minuses, and comparative examples which
solution stands out as the best? Often, groups will employ some degree of synthesis, or
the combining of certain elements of one solution with another solution. At any point
during the step, groups will either use consensus, compromise, voting, or some
combination of all of these as a decision-making method. However, it is important to
ensure that everyone’s voice is heard. One good practice is to go around the group and
give each group member a chance to vocalize his or her opinion.

Step Six: Develop Your Implementation Plan

The final step in the problem-solving process is crucial for securing a successful
outcome for your group’s work. Indeed, it is not enough to have a good idea or solution.
You must employ forward thinking, a specific plan for how your solution will be
implemented or put into action. Who will be responsible for carrying out the solution?
What outside or inside resources are needed to carry out this solution? What challenges
might be faced along the way and how might these issues be resolved? What is a
realistic timetable for the solution bringing a positive return? What will that positive
return look like? How will you assess the solution’s success and weaknesses?

Group Communication and You

Today, we know that social media has the power to bring people together and drive
change. Sports fans flock to Twitter and other social media outlets to follow their favorite
teams and athletes. Less than 5 percent of TV is sports, but 50 percent of what is
tweeted is about sports. And if there was any thought that this phenomenon was only
for Americans that is quickly debunked by the worldwide usage statistics.

“The power to create the global sports village and encourage the next generation of pro-
social media sports fans is at our fingertips.” -Adam C. Earnheardt
While communication technologies can be beneficial for bringing people together and
facilitating groups, they also have drawbacks. Lack of face-to-face encounters requires
members to rely on asynchronous forms of communication. When groups communicate
through email, threads, discussion forums, text messaging, etc., they lose the ability to
provide immediate feedback to other members. Also, using communication technologies
takes a great deal more time for a group to achieve its goals due to the asynchronous
nature of these channels.The face-to-face nature of traditional group meetings provides
immediate processing and feedback through the interaction synchronous group
communication