Tips 5 - 8 On Ways To Improve Your Problem Solving Process:
- Be Mindful Of What You Are NOT Looking For - By design, people have individual perceptions that allow them to quickly notice or think of one thing, but may block out another. The only real way around this obstacle is to be consciously aware of what you instinctively may not be looking at in a particular problem. It also helps to assemble a diverse team to aid you through a problem, where each team member complements one another in a unique way.
- Be Sure To Cover The Bases - As we have said, there is no easy solution to fix problems, especially since no two problems are exactly alike. That does not mean you shouldn't follow a systematic approach each time in order to cover the bases. Problem solving is typically a matter of piecing things together. Having a rundown list is a smart way to prevent overlooking anything. When a process is followed, errors, mistakes and oversights are minimized.
- Develop A Unique System For Your Company - After resolving enough problems using a system, the people at your company will start to follow a pattern or rhythm to problem solving. That rhythm, when blended with bits and pieces of problem solving techniques, can be developed into a unique system for your company. Again, a process won't guarantee you a quick and easy solution to your problem, but it will facilitate the problem solving process in a much more efficient and effective manner.
- Take The Time To Do Research - Research is the difference between learning the hard way - on the fly - versus the easy way - being prepared. There are scores of books about problem solving techniques available. Employ some preventative measures by picking a few of these books to create your own unique system based on the techniques you like. By taking extra time in advance means spending less time dealing with some frustrations in the future.
Summary: Problem solving in the work place is a lot like detective work. For starters, it calls for a lot of fact-finding and data gathering. There is also a lot to be said about the value of research as a preventative measure. Knowing where other people have been and how they got through their own ordeals can be an invaluable tool during your own efforts. If nothing else, exploring other techniques may reveal a new way of approaching a problem you might not consider normally.
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