PROBLEM SOLVING

 INTRODUCTION
Problem solving can be define as the process of finding
solutions to difficult or complex issues. It involves identifying
obstacles, evaluating alternatives, and implementing effective
courses of action to achieve desired outcomes. While
problem solving is often associated with analytical thinking
and logical reasoning, it also encompasses creativity,
flexibility, and emotional intelligence. Another problem
solving meaning is that it is simply a methodology for solving
everyday issues. Problem solving is crucially important for the
basic continued survival of all living creatures, especially
human beings. There are various types of problem solving
that are used in countless ways and in countless fields of
study such as mathematics and physics to determine to solve
complex equations and theoretical issues. It is also widely
used in a variety of professional fields such as constructions
and plumbing where workers must be able to adapt to meet
the needs of specific clients. We use it throughout our
everyday lives to solve basic needs, such as changing a light
fixture on the international space station.
 TIPS FOR BETTER PROBLEM-SOLVING :-
In addition to the approaches listed above, here are
some quick tips for better problem solving are
 Take your time.
When faced with a stressful problem, many people
reflexively scramble to solve it as quickly as
possible. However, developing a lasting solution
usually takes deliberate research and planning.
Unless a problem is urgent, you can usually take the
time necessary to develop a strong solution and still
meet your deadlines.

 DEVELOP YOUR PERSONAL PROBLEM-SOLVING

SKILLS:-
Problem solving engages multiple skills, such as
active listening, research and communication.
Regularly exercising these skills, regardless of
whether or not you’re facing an immediate
problem, can prepare you to problem-solve more
effectively when issues arise.

 WRITE THINGS DOWN:-

We’ve all come up with great ideas only to forget
them when distraction arise. You can avoid this
problem by documenting ideas as people bring
them up. As you advance through the problem –
 solving process, you can also write out all the
possible effects of each option, the resource it will
require and any feedback you receive regarding
that option. That way, you can see all the merits
and shortcoming of each option side by side and
more easily select the best solution.

 GET DIVERSE INPUT:-

When brainstorming or gathering feedback on a
potential solution, it is beneficial to seek input from
every type of stakeholder in the problem. By getting
diverse input before making a decision, you can
ensure that the solution you choose benefits all
parties involved-otherwise, implementing your
solution may generate a new set of problem.

 SPEAK TO PEOPLE IN GROUPS AND ONE-ON-ONE:-

Brainstorming in groups is productive because
participants can build off one another’s ideas,
yielding a solution that no one participant could
have created on their own. However, some people
might be hesitant when in the presence of their
peers to offer suggestion or to identify what that
believe is causing the problem- especially if that
cause implicates another employee. A good way to
ensure diverse and honest input is to discuss the
problem both in groups and one – on – one.
 STEPS INVOLVED IN PROBLEM SOLVING:-
We will give you a basic idea about the problem-solving
steps:-

 IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM:-

The first step in problem-solving is to clearly
describe the issue and understand its scope and
consequences. To achieve this, it is necessary to
clearly define the issue that needs to be solved as
well as its signs and fundamental reasons.

 GATHER INFORMATION:-
Once the problem is defined, the next step is to
collect data and information relevant to the
problem. This can include research, interviews,
surveys, and other methods to understand the
problem better and gather relevant information.

 CREATE SOLUTIONS:-
The next step is to think of various approaches to
the issue and discuss potential solutions. This may
involve working with others to develop fresh ideas
and viewpoints as well as taking into consideration
of various problem-solving strategies.

 EVALUATE SOLUTIONS:-
 Once possible solutions are generated, the next
step is to evaluate them and determine the best
course of action. This involves analyzing the
potential outcomes of each solutions, considering
the resources and limitations involved, and
selecting the best option.

 CHOOSE THE BEST SOLUTION:-

Pick the best solution and carry it out based on the
evaluation. This calls for a detailed implementation
plan that specifies the tasks to be performed, the
required resources, and the timeline for
completion.

 CHECK THE RESULTS:-

The final steps is to check the results and make any
necessary corrections. This involves monitoring the
solution’s progress, evaluating its impacts, and
making any appropriate changes to ensure the best
result.
 THE PROBLEM SOLVING MODELS:-
Problem-solving models are frameworks that provides a
structured approach to identifying, analyzing, and
resolving problems. There are several models to choose
from, and each has its unique strengths and weaknesses.

 SCIENTIFIC MODEL:-
The scientific model is an organized and practical
method of problem-solving that includes
observation, inquiry, formation of theories, testing,
and evaluation of results. To create new
information and technologies, this model is
frequently used in the engineering and scientific
fields.

 DESIGN THINKING MODEL:-

The design thinking model is a user-centered
method of problem-solving that includes
understanding the needs of the user, describing the
issue, coming up with solutions, prototyping, and
testing them. This model is widely used in
industries where user-centered methods are
significant, such as product design, software
development, and others.

 CREATIVE PROBLEM – SOLVING MODEL:-

 The creative problem-solving model (CPS) is a
thorough method for solving problems, that entails
describing the issue, generating ideas, creating
solutions, and then putting those solutions into
practice and assessing them. This method is
regularly used in industries including education,
business, and other fields where creative problem-
solving is important.

 POLYA’S PROBLEM-SOLVING MODEL:-

Polya’s problem-solving model is a four – step
method that involves analyzing the issue, coming
up with a strategy, putting the plan into action, and
assessing the outcome. This model is popular in
mathematics and science education and is seen as
an easy – to – use but powerful method of
problems – solving.

 SYSTEMATIC PROBLEM – SOLVING MODEL:-

Systematic problem – solving model is widely used
in business and management to handle complex
problems in a structured and systematic manner.
 12 APPROACHES TO PROBLEM-SOLVING:-
The rational approach represents a basic formula
for solving problems, but there are many other
approaches you can experiment with to find what
works best for you. Here are some of the
approaches you can use:

1. RATIONAL:-
One of the most common problem-solving
approaches, the rational approach is a multi –
step process that works well for a wide range
of problems. Many other problem-solving
techniques mirror or build off of its seven
steps, so it may be helpful to begin with the
rational approach before moving on to other
techniques. Here are the seven steps of the
rational approach:

i. Define the problem.

ii. Identify possible causes.
iii. Brainstorm options to solve the problem.
iv. Select an option.
v. Create an implementation plan.
vi. Execute the plan and monitor the results.
vii. Evaluate the solution.

2. COLLABORATIVE:-
 This approach involves including multiple
people in the problem-solving process.
Brainstorming should include a diverse group
of stakeholders: people who are affected by
the problem and/or may be affected by any
changes made in an attempt to solve it. Seek
continuous feedback from these stakeholders
as you monitor the implementation of your
solution to make sure it works well for
everyone.

3. CREATIVE:-
The creative approach mirrors the rational
approach but places greater emphasis on the
brainstorming phase. People using the creative
approach utilize ideation techniques such as
mind mapping, storyboards and analogies.

4. HISTORICAL:-
The historical approach is helpful when the
problem you’re facing has precedent within
your field or industry. Researching how others
have solved the problem can guide you as you
develop your own solution.

5. THE SIMPLEX PROCESS:-

 The simplex process is an eight – step
approach similar to the rational approach, but
tailored for situations in which you are unsure
of what the problem actually is. It begins with
problem – finding and research, where users
collect the information necessary for defining
the problem. Users then move through idea –
finding, evaluation and selection and planning.
They then encourage their peers and
stakeholders to take active roles in
implementing their plan, to soften any
resistance to change. Finally, users execute
their plan and monitor the results.

6. ISSUE – BASED:-
A five – step approach often employed in
consulting firms, the issue – based approach is
useful when helping another person solve a
problem they’re facing. The user first creates a
proposal that defines the problem and
inventories the client’s expectation. Next, the
user diagrams the smaller issues that comprise
the problem, then uses this diagram to help
them design a solution. The user then
conducts extensive research and synthesizes
their data into a revised solution. Finally, they
 present their materials to the client and
demonstrate why their solutions is effective.

7. THE 5 WHYS:-
This approach can help you get to the root of a
complex problem. Begin by asking why the
problem occurred, and then ask the same
question about your response. For example, if
you answer that productivity has stagnated
because morale is low, follow up by asking,
“Why is morale low?” Ask “why” a total of five
times. Doing so will help you find the
problem’s root cause.

8. FAILURE MODE AND EFFECTS

ANALYSIS(FEMA):-
FEMA is unique among problem – solving
approaches in that its goal is generally to
preempt problems. A team of experts lists the
functions of a product and then identifies
every possible failure will occur, then rates its
severity and detectability. The team uses these
figures to calculate the risk priority number of
each failure, revealing which problems should
be addressed first.

9. MEANS – END ANALYSIS:-

 Means – end analysis is especially useful for
big – picture problems because it shifts the
focus from the problem itself – which might
feel overwhelming – to the goal that you want
to achieve. After envisioning your goal, you
can work backward to identify the obstacles
that lie in your path. Overcoming these smaller
obstacles one at a time makes solving a large
problem more manageable. Conversely, having
an ultimate goal in mind can guide your
decision – making as you address the smaller
obstacles in your path.

10. SCAMPER:-
SCAMPER is an acronym for substitute,
combine, adapt, modify, put to another use,
eliminate and reverse – terms that represent
options for improving a problematic product
or service:
i. SUBSTITUTE:- Consider substituting
elements of the product or service for
something else.
ii. COMBINE:- Ask yourself whether you
could improve it by combining it with
another product or service.
 iii. ADAPT:- Consider whether the product or
service would be more effective if you
adapted it to another target audience.
iv. MODIFY:- Ask yourself which features it
might be beneficial to modify.
v. PUT TO ANOTHER USE:- Determine
whether your product or service would
be more effective if put to another use.
vi. ELIMINATE:- Identify any unnecessary
features you might eliminate to improve
the product or service.
vii. REVERSE:- Imagine what would happen if
you reconfigured the product or reversed
the process of producing it.

11. ORGANIC:-
The organic approach provides an alternative
perspective on the nature of problems. It
assumes many problems are too intricate to fix
by following a set of linear, generic steps.
Instead, the organic approach calls for users to
identify their visions and values, as well as
identify actions they can take to realize them.
In this way, the organic approach places
importance on the problem – solving process
rather than its results.
12. HYBRID:-
This approach involves combining two or more
of the previous problem – solving approaches.
Doing so prompts you to examine the problem
from multiple angles, helping you to arrive at
the most effective solution possible.