Problem Solving
Define Problem Solving
Strategies for Problem Solving
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Strategies for Problem Solving unioffaisalabad
Definition [Link]
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Problem solving is a cognitive process that involves identifying,
analyzing, and finding solutions to complex issues or challenges.
It encompasses various mental processes, including reasoning,
decision-making, and critical thinking.
In psychology, problem solving is studied to understand how
individuals approach hurdles and make decisions in everyday life.
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Problem Solving process unioffaisalabad
A general process involves these steps
[Link] and Define the Problem
[Link] the Root Cause
[Link] Solutions\ Brainstorming Solutions
[Link] Alternatives solutions
[Link] the Solution
[Link] the Outcome
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A typical problem-solving process involves:
[Link] the Problem: Recognizing that a problem exists and clarifying its
nature.
[Link] the Problem root cause : Understanding the problem's specifics and its
underlying causes.
[Link] Solutions: Generating a wide range of potential solutions.
[Link] alternative Solutions: Assessing the pros and cons of each potential
solution.
[Link] a Solution: Carrying out the chosen solution.
[Link] and Evaluating Outcomes: Checking if the implemented solution
worked and adjusting if necessary
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[Link] and Define the Problem unioffaisalabad
Understanding the Problem:
• Clearly define the problem.
• Break it down into smaller, manageable parts.
• Gather relevant information.
Answer these descriptive questions:
What (what happened) – What is the problem? What product is defective?
Where (point of detection) – Where was the problem detected?
When (date/time of detection) – When was the problem detected? When
does the problem occur?
How (many/much) – How many products are affected? How much of
production (in percentage) is defective?
Who (detection only, not cause) – Who detected the problem?
Why (high level) – Why is this a problem?
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2. Analyze the Root Cause [Link]
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• A root cause is the core issue, the highest-level cause—that sets in motion the
entire cause and effect reaction that ultimately leads to the problem that has been
defined.
• If the root cause is not identified, any solution applied will likely only provide
temporary relief until the problem happens again.
• Thorough probing into root causes will lead you to broad, fundamental issues.
Often, management policies will be involved such as training or the system .
• For complex issues, there may be more than one root cause. Solving a root cause
at a deep, fundamental level often will solve other related issues.
Strategies for Problem Solving [Link]
unioffaisalabad
3. Evaluating Alternative Solutions:
• Assess the feasibility and potential outcomes of each solution.
• Consider the pros and cons of each option.
4. Selecting a Solution:
• Choose the most valuable solution based on evaluation.
• Ensure the chosen solution aligns with the desired outcomes.
Strategies for Problem Solving [Link]
unioffaisalabad
5. Collaborative Problem Solving:
Engage others to gain different perspectives.
Use group discussions to foster collective problem-solving.
6. Using Heuristics:
Apply mental shortcuts or rules of thumb to simplify decision-making.
Examples include the availability heuristic and representativeness heuristic.
Examples
• A person is stuck in traffic and makes an impulsive decision to take the other route
even though you don't know the way.
• Someone is offered a job and accepts it without further details.
• A family chooses to move to another country without being familiar with the
language, culture or area.
Strategies for Problem Solving [Link]
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[Link] Algorithms:
Use step-by-step procedures or formulas for systematic problem-solving.
Algorithms are particularly useful in mathematical or logical problems.
Example:
A recipe for cooking a particular dish.
8. Adapting Cognitive Styles:
Recognize personal cognitive biases and adjust problem-solving approaches
accordingly.
Be aware of different thinking styles (e.g., analytical vs. intuitive) and use them
effectively.
Strategies for Problem Solving [Link]
unioffaisalabad
9. Intuitive decision-making can be efficient, flexible, but it can also be biased,
inconsistent, or irrational.
Example
Choosing the same kind of coffee everyday because you are happy with how it tastes
is a good example.
10. Analytical decision-making can be precise, systematic, and logical, but it can
also be time-consuming, rigid, or complex.
Example
Analytics in the legal industry involves collecting and analyzing relevant data, such as
case documents, court decisions, and legal precedents. This data is then used to train
statistical models and algorithms, which can make predictions based on patterns
Specific Strategies [Link]
unioffaisalabad
•Trial and Error: Trying different approaches until one is found that works.
•Brainstorming: A technique, often used in groups, to generate many ideas quickly without immediate
judgment.
•Means-End Analysis: Identifying the differences between the current state and the goal state and taking steps
to reduce those differences by creating sub-goals.
•Working Backward: Starting from the desired goal and working backward to determine the steps needed to
get there.
•Analogical Problem Solving: Using the solution from a similar problem in the past to solve a new one.
•Incubation: Taking a break from a problem to allow your subconscious to work on it, which can lead to sudden
insights.
•Divide and Conquer: Breaking a large, complex problem into smaller, more manageable parts to tackle them
individually.
Strategies for Problem Solving [Link]
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Strategies for Problem Solving [Link]
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Strategies for Problem Solving [Link]
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