Sometimes we get stuck with a problem that we simple cannot fix. We get lost in how complicated it seems and can’t seem to get past that. Everything in business is actually just problem solving. It is one of those necessary skills that will make or break your company. We wanted to take the time to discuss a bit about what makes for good problem solving techniques.
We recently came across a rather interesting article on this subject. Business Insider wrote a list of nine steps to effective business problem solving.
- “Take the time to define the problem clearly”- We tend to want to jump into solution mode as soon as possible, but usually, that actually hinders the process of problem solving. You can’t solve something if you do not know what the real problem at hand is. When you take the time to really hammer out what the issue is you will be more suited to address it.
- “Pursue alternate paths on ‘facts of life’ and opportunities”- You have to know when something is not actually a problem and is just one of those facts of life we have to deal with. Use that as an opportunity for growth.
- “Challenge the definition from all angles”- Problems rarely have only one definition—usually there are many different ways to define a situation. The more definitions you have, the more ways you can try to approach solving the problem.
- “Iteratively question the cause of the problem”- You must find the root of the problem. It is not enough to just define the issue; you have to figure out what is causing it. The important thing to note here is that you can’t treat the symptoms or the problem will most likely come back. Try not wasting precious time solving an issue you have already solved before.
- “Identify multiple possible solutions”- Like I said before, there are many different ways to approaching solving a problem. The more possible solutions you come up with, the more likely you are to finding the lasting fix.
- “Prioritize potential solutions”- Sometimes it is important to prioritize solutions. A decent resolution that could be implemented right away might actually be preferable and superior to the one that will take a lot of time and has more complexity.
- “Make a decision”- You cannot sit around discussing solutions all day. You have to just pick one and put it into action. Be proactive! The longer you wait, the higher the cost to your company and your success. Deal with issues as readily as possible.
- “Assign responsibility”- Following that, decide who will be in charge of what and how you will implement your ultimate solution. Delegate! There is no “I” in team—make sure that it is more of a collaborative effort.
- “Set a measure for the solution”- As always, it is important to measure everything we do. Otherwise, how will we know what works and what doesn’t?
Problem solvers are necessary in every company, no matter what field or department. You need someone to be able to get things done and get those results. Personally, I think the best way to attack an issue is to break it down into smaller parts. Sometimes, the bigger picture is hard to grasp and thinking of it is more bite-sized parts is easier to comprehend—and therefore, solve.
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