problem solving 5 fasi

Problem Solving

• 22 mar 2023
• Tempo di lettura: 3 min

Le 5 fasi del Problem Solving: un approccio strategico

Il Problem Solving è un approccio metodologico utilizzato per risolvere problemi complessi in modo strutturato ed efficace. In questo articolo vedremo le 5 fasi del Problem Solving, che sono: problem finding, problem setting, problem solving, decision making e decision taking.

Problem Finding

La prima fase del Problem Solving è la problem finding, ovvero la fase di identificazione della problematica. In questa fase è fondamentale individuare la causa del problema, al fine di definirne gli effetti e sviluppare soluzioni personalizzate ed efficaci. Per individuare la problematica, è possibile utilizzare diverse tecniche, come l'analisi SWOT, l'analisi PESTEL e altre tecniche di analisi. L'importante è definire il problema in modo chiaro e preciso, al fine di affrontarlo in modo efficace.

Esempio: se un'azienda sta avendo problemi con la soddisfazione dei propri clienti, la fase di problem finding consisterebbe nell'individuare la causa di questa insoddisfazione. Potrebbe essere dovuta alla qualità del prodotto, ai tempi di consegna, al servizio clienti, o ad altri fattori. È importante definire il problema in modo chiaro e preciso, al fine di sviluppare soluzioni efficaci.

Problem Setting

La fase successiva del Problem Solving è la problem setting, ovvero la fase di definizione del problema. In questa fase si definisce il problema in modo chiaro e preciso, al fine di sviluppare soluzioni efficaci. Una definizione imprecisa del problema può portare a soluzioni inadeguate, per cui è importante dedicare il giusto tempo e le giuste risorse alla fase di problem setting. Inoltre, è importante coinvolgere tutte le persone coinvolte nella problematica, al fine di sviluppare una definizione completa e accurata del problema.

Esempio: dopo aver individuato che la soddisfazione del cliente è il problema principale dell'azienda, la fase di problem setting consisterebbe nella definizione del problema in modo chiaro e preciso. Questo potrebbe includere la definizione del target di riferimento, la definizione dei fattori critici di successo, e la definizione degli obiettivi di miglioramento.

La fase successiva del Problem Solving è la problem solving, ovvero la fase di ricerca delle soluzioni. In questa fase si sviluppano soluzioni innovative ed efficaci per risolvere il problema individuato. Si utilizzano strumenti come la creatività e l'innovazione, al fine di individuare soluzioni personalizzate per le esigenze dell'azienda. Inoltre, è importante coinvolgere tutte le persone coinvolte nella problematica, al fine di sviluppare soluzioni condivise e accettate da tutti.

Esempio: una volta definito il problema della soddisfazione del cliente, la fase di problem solving potrebbe consistere nello sviluppo di soluzioni innovative ed efficaci per risolvere la problematica. Potrebbe includere la ricerca di nuove strategie di marketing, l'implementazione di programmi di fidelizzazione del cliente, o il miglioramento del servizio clienti.

Decision Making

La fase successiva del Problem Solving è la decision making, ovvero la fase di valutazione delle soluzioni individuate. In questa fase si valutano le soluzioni individuate, al fine di selezionare quella più efficace. Si utilizzano strumenti come l'analisi dei costi e dei benefici, al fine di individuare la soluzione migliore per l'azienda. Inoltre, è importante coinvolgere tutte le persone coinvolte nella problematica, al fine di valutare le soluzioni in modo condiviso e accettato da tutti.

Esempio: una volta individuate le soluzioni per migliorare la soddisfazione del cliente, la fase di decision making potrebbe consistere nella valutazione delle soluzioni individuate. Potrebbe includere l'analisi dei costi e dei benefici, la valutazione dei rischi e delle opportunità, e la selezione della soluzione più efficace per l'azienda.

Decision Taking

L'ultima fase del Problem Solving è la decision taking, ovvero la fase di implementazione delle soluzioni individuate. In questa fase si implementano le soluzioni individuate, monitorando i risultati e apportando eventuali modifiche per garantire il successo dell'intervento. È importante dedicare le giuste risorse e competenze per la fase di decision taking, al fine di garantire l'efficacia delle soluzioni implementate.

Esempio: dopo aver selezionato la soluzione migliore per migliorare la soddisfazione del cliente, la fase di decision taking consisterebbe nell'implementazione della soluzione. Questo potrebbe includere l'organizzazione dei team di lavoro, l'assegnazione delle risorse, la definizione dei tempi e dei budget, e il monitoraggio dei risultati.

Conclusioni

Il Problem Solving è un approccio metodologico utile per affrontare problemi complessi in modo strutturato ed efficace. Grazie alle sue 5 fasi - problem finding, problem setting, problem solving, decision making e decision taking - il Problem Solving consente di individuare le problematiche aziendali e di sviluppare soluzioni personalizzate ed efficaci.

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7' di lettura

“Houston, we’ve had a problem.”

Quando l’ Apollo 13 ha iniziato a perdere energia e ossigeno dalla navicella di sicuro non aveva un manuale di istruzioni su come gestire quella situazione. Nonostante gli anni di addestramento e una conoscenza millimetrica dell’astronave, il guasto era inaspettato e la sorte degli astronauti indefinita.

Cosa hanno fatto Lovell, Swigert e Haise in quel momento? Quale competenza hanno messo in pratica? La risposta è il problem solving !

Per tutti coloro che, pur non dovendo andare sulla luna, desiderano affinare una nuova skill, il seguente articolo ambisce ad essere una breve guida per sviluppare un problem solving galattico . Iniziamo!

Ecco quali punti verranno trattati:

• Le fasi del problem solving
• Problem solving e problem setting
• Tecniche e consigli per un problem solving avanzato
• Le tecniche del problem solving secondo Claude Shannon
• Conclusione

🐙 Ma come sviluppare e mantenere aggiornate nel tempo le proprie competenze ? Scopri Tentacle Learning Platform : la piattaforma pensata per un'esperienza di apprendimento flessibile, piacevole e omnicanale.

1. Le fasi del problem solving

Il problem solving non si esaurisce nella mera soluzione al problema. Come abbiamo visto nel nostro articolo Problem solving: cos’è e come svilupparlo , la risoluzione di problemi è un processo che si articola in più fasi e che implica metodologie e strumenti differenti.

In genere il processo di problem solving si snoda nelle seguenti fasi :

• Identificazione del problema : uno dei modi più semplici per identificare ogni aspetto del problema è porsi delle domande. Chi è coinvolto? Cosa è successo? Cosa si vuole ottenere? Perché? In che modo? Quali strumenti si hanno a disposizione? Le domande giuste aiutano a non lasciare nulla al caso e a rappresentarne ogni sfaccettatura.
• Individuazione degli obiettivi : sapere dove si sta andando permette di valutare al meglio se la soluzione che verrà attuata corrisponde o meno allo scenario ideale.
• Formulazione della strategia di risoluzione : il momento delle decisioni. Gestione delle informazioni, definizione degli orizzonti temporali, suddivisione delle risorse, assegnazione dei compiti e scelta degli strumenti sono tutti elementi che concorrono a una solida formulazione della strategia e che pongono le basi per una soluzione efficace.
• Implementazione della soluzione : è tempo di sporcarsi le mani!
• Controllo e valutazione della soluzione : non sempre è sufficiente che una soluzione funzioni nell’immediato, ma al contrario è necessario che permanga l’effetto positivo della soluzione scelta. Ecco perché è una buona pratica fare un check a distanza di tempo. Se la soluzione si è dimostrata valida potrà poi essere utilizzata anche per altri problemi analoghi.

2. Problem solving e problem setting

Il problem setting è la fase teorica di analisi, definizione, sintesi e descrizione del problema. Si tratta della fase che precede la concreta attuazione della soluzione e concentra le prime fasi del più ampio processo di risoluzione di un problema, ossia i primi tre punti dell’elenco precedente.

Il problem setting precede il problem solving , che invece si concretizza nelle ultime due fasi. Con il problem solving la teoria è tradotta in concreta gestione del problema, realizzazione della soluzione scelta, controllo dell’esito delle proprie decisioni e monitoraggio sul lungo periodo della bontà della soluzione.

In sintesi problem solving e problem setting rispondono rispettivamente alle seguenti domande :

Il problem setting risponde alla domanda: che cosa fare?

Il problem solving risponde alla domanda: come fare?

3. Tecniche e consigli per un problem solving avanzato

È il momento di passare in rassegna alcune tecniche di problem solving particolarmente efficaci. Di seguito vengono forniti anche alcuni consigli per innescare e allenare questa skill complessa.

Come già citato nel nostro articolo Problem solving: cos’è e come svilupparlo le mappe mentali o mindmap possono essere uno strumento utile per analizzare il problema. Esse permettono di fare un brainstorming che origina dal problema e si irradia in molte direzioni. La creatività e il ragionamento logico prendono piede e il problema viene sviscerato.

In secondo luogo, lo scrittore Edward De Bono ha ideato l’approccio i “ 6 cappelli per pensare ”, una tecnica di problem solving tale per cui si prende in considerazione un problema da molti punti di vista, rappresentati da cappelli colorati. Ogni colore corrisponde a un angolazione differente.

• Bianco : da indossare nella fase di ricerca, raccolta, sistematizzazione delle informazioni e dei dati disponibili.
• Rosso : un colore acceso per richiamare le emozioni suscitate dal problema.
• Nero : è lo sguardo pessimista, concentrato sugli aspetti negativi della situazione.
• Giallo : il colore del sole per avere uno sguardo luminoso e ottimista.
• Verde : è il cappello della creatività, libera da vincoli e doveri.
• Blu : un colore calmo, come il mare più profondo, per moderare il discorso e avvolgere tutti gli altri colori.

Ultima, ma non meno importante, la SWOT analysis permette di verificare che una soluzione sia idonea e solida prima di applicarla. Questa tecnica consiste nel generare una matrice che copra quattro aree relative alla soluzione che abbiamo in mente:

Punti di forza : perché e in che modo questa soluzione si presta al problema che vogliamo risolvere?

Punti di debolezza : qual è il tallone d’Achille della soluzione? Come si può ovviare?

Opportunità : quali sono i benefici che si generano applicando questa soluzione?

Minacce : quali sono i risvolti della soluzione scelta? Avrà impatto sull’organizzazione o sul team?

Costruire e completare la SWOT analysis è un buon modo per mettere alla prova la soluzione scelta, ponderare il rischio e prendere una decisione più consapevole possibile . Essa permette di ottenere una visione d’insieme di tutti gli elementi che impattano sulla situazione in essere.

Con l’ausilio di una SWOT analysis, l’Apollo 13 avrebbe valutato se fosse stato meglio salvare gli astronauti o portare a termine la missione alla luce dei rischi e dei benefici emersi.

4. Le tecniche del problem solving secondo Claude Shannon

Ingegnere e matematico, Claude Shannon è stata una delle menti più brillanti del 20° secolo. Oggi lo ricordiamo soprattutto per la Teoria dell’informazione , ossia il modello matematico della comunicazione formulato insieme a Warren Weaver nel 1949.

Astraendo le proprie conoscenze di matematica, ingegneria, comunicazione e chi più ne ha più ne metta, Shannon ha elaborato un proprio stile di problem solving . In effetti è facile pensare che lui di problemi (almeno matematici!) ne abbia risolti molti.

Quindi ecco le tecniche di problem solving più efficaci a parere del matematico. È possibile applicarne solo una, più di una o tutte per risolvere un problema.

• Semplificazione : ridurre all’osso il problema per poi concentrarsi sull’essenziale. Invece di perdere tempo con gli aspetti e i dati secondari del problema, si dovrebbe andare al nucleo e cercare una soluzione per quello. Questo punto si può riassumere ricordando al problem solver di tenere sempre gli occhi puntati sull’obiettivo finale.
• Ricerca di problemi noti simili : è bene evitare di reinventare la ruota. Ampliando lo sguardo e traslando il problema in altri ambiti è possibile intercettare problemi analoghi e soluzioni già attuate. 
• Riformulazione del problema : cambiare le parole, cambiare il punto di vista, cambiare angolazione. Osservare il problema in molti modi aumenta la possibilità di trovare nuove interpretazioni dell’essenza stessa del problema.
• Generalizzazione : astrarre le soluzioni già applicate ad altri problemi significa abbandonare il punto di vista specifico, lasciarsi alle spalle il peso dei dettagli per abbracciare una più ampia visione, quasi aerea, del contesto.
• Analisi strutturale del problema : da principianti a tutti sarà capitato di sprecare ore, lacrime e moltissimi strumenti per la risoluzione di un problema apparentemente insormontabile. Aumentando la propria expertise sul problema il tempo speso e gli strumenti in uso diminuiranno e ci si renderà conto che erano superflui.
• Inversione del problema : se con la premessa A si cerca di ottenere la soluzione B, si può cercare di invertire il problema immaginando che B sia la premessa e A il punto di arrivo. È possibile che questa inversione di marcia permetta di mettersi sulla strada giusta per risolvere il problema iniziale.

5. Conclusione

Questo breve viaggio alla scoperta del problem solving mette in luce l’importanza di allenare un mindset adeguato, di conoscere le tecniche essenziali per svilupparlo e di padroneggiare gli strumenti più creativi.

Ogni problema può essere gestito grazie a un problem solving… stellare . Persino un guasto alla navicella!

🐙 La Digital Trasformation non è mai stata così vicina . È giunto il momento di approcciare (con ordine) il cambiamento con il mindset e le skill adatte!

Sofia De Carolis

Brutally honest since 1996. Amo scrivere storie dal finale aperto, sognare ad occhi aperti e raccontare le piccole e grandi avventure quotidiane. Mi piace vivere a Milano, con le sue timide bellezze, ma il mio zaino è sempre pronto per qualche viaggio in spicchi di mondo inesplorati.

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Quali sono le fasi del problem solving: una guida pratica

Il problem solving è un processo mentale che ci aiuta a risolvere i problemi e a prendere decisioni consapevoli. può sembrare un’attività semplice, ma comprendere le fasi del problem solving può aiutarci a essere più efficaci e efficienti nel trovare soluzioni. in questo articolo, esploreremo le fasi fondamentali del problem solving e forniremo una guida pratica per affrontare i problemi con successo..

Identificazione del problema

La prima fase del problem solving è l’identificazione del problema. È importante comprendere chiaramente quale sia il problema che stiamo affrontando. Definire il problema in modo specifico e dettagliato ci aiuta a focalizzarci sulla sua soluzione. Potremmo fare domande come:

• Cosa sta causando questo problema?
• Come influisce sulle nostre attività o sulla nostra vita?
• Quali sono gli effetti a breve e lungo termine del problema?

Analisi del problema

Una volta identificato il problema, passiamo all’analisi. Durante questa fase, esaminiamo il problema da diverse angolature per comprenderne le cause e gli effetti. Alcune domande che potremmo porci sono:

• Quali sono le possibili cause del problema?
• Cosa dobbiamo conoscere per risolvere il problema?
• Quali sono gli ostacoli che potrebbero impedirci di risolvere il problema?

Generazione di alternative

Una volta compresa la natura del problema, è opportuno generare alternative per risolverlo. Questa fase ci permette di esplorare diverse soluzioni possibili e di valutare i loro vantaggi e svantaggi. Potremmo chiederci:

• Come possiamo affrontare il problema in modo creativo?
• Quali soluzioni sono realistiche e fattibili?
• Come possiamo sfruttare al meglio le nostre risorse disponibili?

Valutazione delle alternative

Dopo aver generato diverse alternative, dobbiamo valutarle per determinare quale potrebbe essere la migliore soluzione. Consideriamo i vantaggi e gli svantaggi di ciascuna alternativa e valutiamo la loro fattibilità e sostenibilità. Alcune domande che potremmo fare sono:

• Quale alternativa è più adatta per risolvere il problema?
• Quali potrebbero essere le conseguenze a breve e lungo termine di ciascuna alternativa?
• Quali risorse saranno necessarie per implementare ciascuna alternativa?

Implementazione della soluzione

Dopo aver valutato le alternative, giungiamo alla fase di implementazione della soluzione scelta. In questa fase, mettiamo in atto le azioni necessarie per risolvere il problema identificato. Valutiamo la nostra capacità di adattamento e prepariamoci al cambiamento. Potremmo voler considerare le seguenti domande:

• Come possiamo implementare con successo la soluzione?
• Quali azioni specifiche dobbiamo intraprendere per risolvere il problema?
• Come possiamo monitorare i progressi e misurare il successo della soluzione?

Valutazione dei risultati

Infine, è importante valutare i risultati della soluzione implementata. Verifichiamo se la soluzione ha risolto il problema in modo efficace o se sono necessarie ulteriori azioni. Potremmo chiederci:

• La soluzione ha risolto completamente il problema?
• Ci sono miglioramenti aggiuntivi che possiamo apportare al processo?
• Cosa abbiamo imparato da questo problema e come possiamo applicare queste conoscenze in futuro?

Ora che hai compreso le fasi del problem solving, puoi migliorare le tue abilità decisionali ed essere più strategico nell’affrontare le sfide che incontri. Utilizza questa guida pratica per rendere il tuo processo di problem solving più efficace e raggiungere risultati concreti.

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Angolo della Psicologia

Blog di Psicologia

Le 5 fasi del problem solving

Il problem solving (risoluzione dei problemi) è un complesso processo psicologico attraverso il quale cerchiamo di trovare il modo migliore per superare un ostacolo o affrontare una sfida. Purtroppo questo processo non è sempre lineare, ma può seguire percorsi molto tortuosi, gettandoci in una situazione di angoscia psicologica quando crediamo che non ci sia una soluzione.

D’altra parte, conoscere le fasi del problem solving ci farà risparmiare molti grattacapi. Dare una struttura coerente alla situazione che ci riguarda e avere un filo conduttore che ci guida lungo il cammino, ci aiuterà a mettere un po’ di ordine nel caos mentale generato dai problemi.

Per risolvere un problema, l’esperienza non sempre gioca a nostro favore

L’esperienza può essere un plus o, al contrario, diventare un impedimento nella risoluzione dei problemi. Gli psicologi delle università di Hong Kong e Princeton hanno esaminato come implementiamo le strategie di problem solving chiedendo a un gruppo di persone di risolvere una serie di problemi.

Ai partecipanti vennero presentati una serie di quadrati collegati. Ogni quadrato della matrice era composto da pezzi separati e le persone dovevano rimuovere un numero di corrispondenze mantenendo intatto un numero specifico di quadrati. La cosa interessante di questi tipi di problemi è che generalmente hanno più di una soluzione, possono essere utilizzate diverse strategie e queste devono cambiare a seconda della configurazione della matrice, proprio come avviene di solito con i problemi della vita.

Questi ricercatori scoprirono che i partecipanti attraversavano due fasi principali nella risoluzione dei problemi. All’inizio si lasciavano trasportare dalle caratteristiche percettive del problema e iniziavano a esplorare diverse strategie, alcune di successo e altre no.

In un secondo momento usavano l’esperienza accumulata per restringere le loro opzioni strategiche, concentrandosi su quelle che ebbero più successo. Il problema è che più i partecipanti si fidavano della loro conoscenza strategica, più difficoltà avevano nel risolvere problemi che richiedevano l’applicazione di nuove strategie. In pratica, soffrivano di una sorta di fissazione funzionale.

Questa serie di esperimenti ci mostrano che per risolvere un problema dobbiamo mantenere la mente aperta, perché lungo il percorso è probabile che le circostanze cambino e abbiamo bisogno della flessibilità mentale necessaria per cambiare le nostre strategie di problem solving.

Le fasi del problem solving che tutti possiamo applicare

1. Identificare il problema

Può sembrare banale, ma il fatto è che identificare il vero problema non è così facile come sembra, soprattutto quando si tratta di una situazione che ci coinvolge emotivamente. Infatti, quando il problema ci genera paura o abbiamo la sensazione di non avere gli strumenti psicologici per risolverlo, tendiamo a mettere in pratica dei meccanismi di difesa come lo spostamento che ci permettono di cancellare la situazione problematica dalla nostra mente cosciente.

Invece, essere in grado di identificare il problema è il primo passo per trovare una soluzione. Molte volte ciò significa smettere di cercare i colpevoli all’esterno e guardarci dentro chiedendoci perché una situazione ci preoccupa o ci ostacola.

2. Comprendere il problema

Molte volte il problema porta con sé il seme della soluzione. Quindi uno dei passaggi per risolvere un problema è assicurarsi di capirlo. Non basta identificare il problema, bisogna definirlo. Per questo dobbiamo analizzarlo da diverse prospettive.

Ad esempio, se stiamo cercando di realizzare un progetto professionale che non riesce a mettersi in moto, dobbiamo chiarire i motivi. Abbiamo bisogno di più formazione? Siamo in un settore eccessivamente competitivo? Abbiamo abbastanza risorse? Dobbiamo capire l’origine del problema.

L’organizzazione delle informazioni disponibili è un altro passaggio cruciale nel processo di risoluzione dei problemi. Dobbiamo chiederci sia cosa sappiamo del problema sia tutto ciò che non sappiamo. In definitiva, l’accuratezza della soluzione dipenderà in gran parte dalla quantità di informazioni disponibili.

3. Assumere una distanza psicologica

La maggior parte dei principali problemi della vita ha il potenziale per generare uno tsunami emotivo. Tuttavia, molte volte il coinvolgimento affettivo ci offusca e ci impedisce di pensare con chiarezza. Ecco perché una delle fasi più importanti ma meno conosciute del problem solving consiste nell’allontanarsi da ciò che ci preoccupa. Per assumere una certa distanza psicologica , possiamo allontanarci qualche giorno dall’ambiente problematico o provare a smettere di pensare per un po’ a ciò che ci preoccupa.

Durante questo periodo la mente inconscia continuerà a lavorare ed è probabile che generi insights creativi e perfettamente validi che portano alla soluzione del problema. La distanza ci permette di superare le fissazioni funzionali che ci impediscono di pensare fuori dagli schemi, dando il via ad una ristrutturazione mentale che ci permetterà di vedere il problema da un’altra prospettiva.

4. Cercare soluzioni e sviluppare strategie

Ogni problema è diverso, quindi richiederà una soluzione specifica. Non sempre una soluzione può essere raggiunta con l’insight, quindi sarà necessario pensare a possibili alternative per risolvere il problema. La sinettica , ad esempio, è un metodo di risoluzione dei problemi che utilizza la creatività per trovare soluzioni originali.

Il passo successivo è sviluppare una strategia, perché le soluzioni che non si materializzano in passaggi concreti sono molto difficili da mettere in pratica. Pertanto, dobbiamo chiederci come implementeremo la nostra soluzione. In questa fase di problem solving è importante essere onesti con noi stessi e mettere in pratica quella strategia tenendo conto delle nostre risorse e della nostra reale disponibilità. È inutile progettare una strategia straordinaria se non possiamo applicarla in seguito.

5. Valutazione dei progressi

Pochissimi problemi vengono risolti dall’oggi al domani. Si tratta generalmente di situazioni complesse che dobbiamo pazientemente “sciogliere” nel tempo. Pertanto, un’altra delle fasi del problem solving consiste nel monitorare i risultati che stiamo ottenendo. In questo modo ci assicuriamo di essere sulla strada giusta e di non sprecare inutilmente tempo ed energia.

In quest’ultima fase della risoluzione dei problemi è importante essere in grado di adattare le nostre aspettative. È difficile per un progetto professionale decollare in un batter d’occhio, quindi dobbiamo concentrarci sui piccoli passaggi che indicano che la soluzione sta dando i suoi frutti. Per fare ciò, è importante fermarci a riflettere di tanto in tanto sull’impatto della soluzione.

Dobbiamo anche tenere presente che le circostanze cambiano spesso, quindi potrebbe essere necessario apportare delle modifiche alla soluzione iniziale. Ciò richiede una grande flessibilità mentale per cambiare rotta quando ci rendiamo conto che la strategia non è così efficace come vorremmo.

Fedor, A. et. Al. (2015) Problem solving stages in the five square problem.  Front. Psychol ; 6: 1050.

Louis Lee, N. Y. & Johnson-Laird, P. N. (2013) Strategic changes in problem solving.  Journal of Cognitive Psychology ; 25: 165–173. 

Gillen, G. (2009) Managing Executive Function Impairments to Optimize Function.  Cognitive and Perceptual Rehabilitation ; 245-283.

Jennifer Delgado Suárez

Sono una psicologa e da molti anni scrivo articoli per riviste scientifiche specializzate in Salute e Psicologia. Il mio desiderio è aiutarti a realizzare esperienze straordinarie. Se desideri sapere di più clicca qui .

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Le fasi del problem solving: 5 step per la soluzione dei problemi

Le fasi del problem solving

Dopo aver individuato un elenco di potenziali problemi, il prossimo passo per il buon manager è quello di trovare soluzioni efficaci per questi problemi, individuando le competenze necessarie a risolverli. Ecco i 5 passaggi più comunemente utilizzati nella risoluzione dei problemi.

• Analisi dei fattori o delle cause che contribuiscono al sorgere del problema – La prima fase del problem solving richiede un’identificazione delle cause originarie del problema e dei principali fattori coinvolti per determinare l’ambito dei problemi. Le abilità utili sono ascolto attivo, raccolta dati, analisi dei dati, analisi storica, analisi causale, analisi dei processi, identificazione dei bisogni etc.
• Individuare una serie di soluzioni alternative per raggiungere l’obiettivo finale – La seconda fase implica l’individuazione di una serie di opzioni da considerare per risolvere il problema. In questa fase entrano in gioco capacità come quelle di brainstorming, pensiero creativo, previsione, progettazione, pianificazione etc.
• Valutazione delle soluzioni migliori – Qui entrano in gioco le misurazioni sui benefici, i possibili successi e i progressi forniti dalla metodologia di problem solving adottata. Le competenze richieste variano da quelle di analisi, discussione, corroborazione, lavoro di squadra, a quelle di mediazione, definizione delle priorità, decision making etc.
• Implementazione di un piano – La fase successiva implica la creazione di un piano d’azione che preveda obiettivi, strategie, ruoli e responsabilità. Le competenze richieste vanno da quelle di gestione del progetto alla collaborazione, la gestione del tempo, sviluppo del benchmark etc.
• Misurazione dell’efficacia degli interventi – L’ultima fase implica la misurazione di successo della strategia di problem solving attuata in base al raggiungimento degli obiettivi previsti. Qui entrano in gioco competenze come l’analisi dei dati.

Le fasi del problem solving che abbiamo qui individuato possono essere applicate a qualsiasi attività in cui emerge la necessità di risoluzione dei problemi e il miglioramento di qualsiasi processo operativo. Per conoscere e padroneggiare gli strumenti più efficaci del problem solving, affidatevi al Master in Project Management di GEMA Business School.

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Problem solving: come definire e risolvere un problema

L’attitudine alla risoluzione dei problemi può rappresentare una risorsa individuale molto importante nella vita personale, sociale e lavorativa di ciascuno di noi. Ma che cos’è la risoluzione di un problema?

In questo articolo approfondiremo il tema del problem solving , analizzando:

• quali sono le fasi possibili per la risoluzione di un problema
• quali possono essere i principali ostacoli alla soluzione di un problema
• come individuare qual è l’obiettivo finale del problem solving.

Cos'è il problem solving

La definizione di problem solving, stando alla traduzione letterale, è “ risoluzione di un problema ”. Chi ha inventato il problem solving è George Polya, un matematico che nel 1945 ha pubblicato il libro “How to solve it”, definendo i quattro principi base del problem solving che conosciamo oggi. 

Tipi di pensiero coinvolti nel problem solving

La capacità di risolvere un problema, che deriva dalla capacità di analizzarlo e valutarlo, è stata messa in relazione con il pensiero laterale o divergente (che ricordiamo è una caratteristica peculiare dei "bambini gifted" o con plusdotazione ). 

Il rapporto tra pensiero divergente e problem solving è molto stretto, perché la capacità di pensare in maniera creativa e "fuori dagli schemi" che caratterizza il pensiero laterale, può essere molto utile a trovare soluzioni innovative al problema da affrontare. 

Il problem solving è strettamente legato anche 

• al pensiero consequenziale , che ci consente di prendere decisioni prevedendo in anticipo le possibili conseguenze
• al pensiero mezzi-fini o analitico , che include la capacità di pianificare le singole azioni che ci separano da un obiettivo.

Dal problem solving in matematica a quello nel marketing, da quello in medicina al problem solving nella riabilitazione psichiatrica, dal problem solving nella pubblica amministrazione a quello in azienda, le strategie e le tecniche di problem solving possono essere utili in diversi ambiti.

Le fasi del problem solving

Il problem solving è un’ ottima skill per completare le proprie competenze organizzative e gestionali. Esso è utile, per esempio, per risolvere eventuali problemi sul lavoro , ed è tra gli strumenti che possono favorire una proficua e positiva gestione del conflitto e, di conseguenza, il benessere organizzativo in azienda.

Possiamo immaginare la metodologia del problem solving in un processo diviso in 5 fasi:

• identificare il problema , i fattori principali che lo costituiscono e l’ambito del problema. In questa fase è molto importante possedere una buona capacità di analisi
• individuare le diverse opzioni di soluzione: in questa fase può essere utile utilizzare il brainstorming , che permette di stimolare la produzione delle idee 
• valutazione della soluzione (o della combinazione di soluzioni) più idonea, favorita dalla metodologia dei pro e contro 
• sviluppo del piano d’azione , fase in cui si stabiliscono ruoli e responsabilità a seconda delle competenze
• misurazione dell’efficacia , quella fase in cui si valuta il risultato della strategia di problem solving messa in atto.

Definire il problema

Possiamo parlare di problema ogni qual volta ci troviamo di fronte a una discrepanza tra il nostro stato attuale e ciò che desideriamo. In questo caso, identificare questa discrepanza rappresenta il primo passo per poterla risolvere.

Per definire il problema, è utile porsi alcune domande la cui risposta ci consente di avere una visione più ampia e oggettiva:

• interrogarsi circa la natura del problema
• chiederci se disponiamo di tutte le informazioni sul problema 
• chiarire quali sono gli obiettivi che vogliamo raggiungere e quali soluzioni alternative abbiamo
• valutare se coinvolgere qualcuno nella soluzione del problema.

È importante descrivere quanto più oggettivamente possibile i vari elementi del problema. In questo caso è importante chiedersi:

• quando è iniziato il problema
• perché è sorto
• dove si presenta
• chi è coinvolto
• cosa ci mette in crisi
• che prezzo stiamo pagando
• cosa accadrà se non lo risolveremo.

Definire il problema ci consente di riflettere maggiormente e meglio su tale evento, aiutandoci a trovare soluzioni più efficaci non dettate da meccanismi automatici o da emozioni come ansia e rabbia .

La definizione degli obiettivi e la scelta della soluzione

Qual è il primo passo che porta alla possibile risoluzione di un problema? Una volta definito il problema, bisogna stabilire quali sono gli obiettivi che vogliamo raggiungere , possibilmente fissando degli indicatori misurabili. 

Fatto questo, dobbiamo creare diverse alternative di soluzione. È soprattutto in questa fase che il pensiero laterale ci aiuta a produrre delle soluzioni nuove, che possono anche essere una combinazione inedita delle opzioni emerse in fase di brainstorming. 

Poi, per ciascuna possibilità di scelta, dobbiamo valutare costi e benefici , che ci permetterà di prendere una decisione più consapevole e con maggiori probabilità di adattarsi alle nostre esigenze. 

La risoluzione del problema

Messa in atto la soluzione scelta, bisogna verificare se essa risolve il problema. Se ciò non avviene, si passa alla soluzione successiva. Per ogni soluzione scelta andranno pianificate le azioni stabilendo:

• i compiti (cosa fare)
• le risorse (con quali mezzi)
• i processi (quando).

È importante sottolineare che alcuni problemi vanno scomposti in micro-problemi per poter essere risolti.

La tecnica f.a.r.e. del problem solving

Le metodologie per applicare il problem solving sono diverse:

• DMAIC ( Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control )
• APS ( Applied Problem Solving )
• FMECA ( Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analysis )
• PDCA o ciclo di Deming

Con l'acronimo f.a.r.e., si fa riferimento a quattro passaggi necessari alla risoluzione del problema, qualsiasi sia la sua natura e il suo ambito di applicazione. Andiamo a descrivere brevemente questi passaggi:

• focalizzare : in questa fase si individua il problema o i problemi oggetto di attenzione, individuandone e descrivendone le caratteristiche
• analizzare : in questo passaggio si decide  quali sono i dati utili per l' analisi del problema stesso,  approfondendo i fattori rilevanti
• risolvere : in questa fase si trovano soluzioni alternative dalle quali selezionarne una per sviluppare un piano di attuazione
• eseguire : l'ultimo passaggio prevede l'applicazione della soluzione scelta e il monitoraggio del risultato atteso.

Problem setting, problem posing e problem solving

Come abbiamo visto, prima della soluzione del problema, definito sinteticamente problem solving, c’è un passaggio precedente, il problem setting , che consiste nella definizione del problema ovvero di tutto ciò che può essere risolto, separandolo da tutte quelle condizioni che per loro natura non possono essere modificate.

Il problem posing , invece, rappresenta un metodo di individuazione e concettualizzazione del problema utilizzando il pensiero critico mentre, solitamente, nel problem solving tale processo avviene utilizzando le conoscenze pregresse, ovvero regole già apprese.

Decision making e problem solving: differenza

Spesso i termini decision making e problem solving vengono utilizzati insieme, si tratta infatti di due soft skills molto importanti nel mondo del lavoro. Qual è quindi la differenza tra decision making e problem solving? 

Il gioco degli scacchi ci permette di fare un ottimo esempio per distinguere problem solving e decision making. Se infatti, in fase di apertura, il giocatore si trova davanti a una decisione da prendere in una situazione di incertezza, fare una mossa sotto scacco rappresenta sicuramente un problema da risolvere.

Mentre quindi con il problem solving individuiamo un problema e le possibili soluzioni, il decision making rappresenta la capacità di scegliere la soluzione da mettere in atto.

Problem solving e creatività

Problem solving e creatività rappresentano delle capacità trasversali che possono essere determinanti per raggiungere il successo. Abbiamo visto come, attraverso l’utilizzo del problem solving e le diverse fasi che lo compongono, si possa giungere alla soluzione del problema. 

La  creatività, invece, rappresenta la capacità di andare al di là di ciò che è conosciuto , trovando nuove strategie e soluzioni, andando oltre ciò che è noto. Lo stesso problem solving può diventare un atto creativo nel momento in cui si esce dai soliti schemi per trovare nuovi modi per definire il problema creando, di conseguenza, soluzioni creative.

Problem solving: esempi pratici a scuola 

I possibili esempi di problem solving nella vita quotidiana sono numerosi. Un ambito particolarmente utile di applicazione del problem solving è a scuola e con i bambini . Gli alunni si ritrovano infatti a dover risolvere diversi problemi e non solo durante l’ora di matematica. 

Quando interagiscono gli uni con gli altri, le capacità di problem solving interpersonale , per esempio, possono favorire l’adozione di comportamenti socialmente competenti. Un modo per aiutare lo sviluppo del problem solving è quello di creare in classe, attraverso il gioco, situazioni problema che devono essere risolte. 

Il gioco dell’autobus è un esempio di problem solving di gruppo da svolgere in classe. I bambini sono seduti su delle sedie disposte in modo da sembrare sedili di un autobus, l’insegnante è in prima fila e finge di muovere il volante, poi dice:

“Che rumore! Avete sentito? è scoppiata una ruota! Ora prendo il cric e provo ad alzare l’autobus. Caspita, l’autobus è molto pesante e si abbassa subito. Come possiamo fare ad arrivare in tempo a scuola?”

A questo punto i bambini sono invitati a proporre delle soluzioni da scrivere sulla lavagna. Per ognuna delle proposte i bambini sono invitati a pensare a tre possibili conseguenze e stimolati con domande come:

• cosa potrebbe accadere dopo?
• cosa potrebbe fare l’autista?
• come potrebbe sentirsi l’autista? 

Alla fine, tutta la classe voterà a maggioranza una possibile soluzione per terminare l’attività di problem solving.

Un altro esercizio di problem solving per i bambini potrebbe essere svolto con l’ausilio della scrittura , chiedendo loro di scrivere la parte centrale (quindi la soluzione) di una storia con finale dato. Ecco un esempio di storia da proporre:

“Luca doveva incontrare Diana al cinema alle 16:00, ma lei non si è presentata all’appuntamento. Luca è molto arrabbiato con Diana, l’ha aspettata a lungo e alla fine vede il film da solo. La storia finisce con Luca che non è più arrabbiato.”

Tra le possibili esercitazioni di problem solving adatte alla scuola dell’infanzia c’è poi la seguente:

“Tre bambini, Luigi, Diego e Nicola, vogliono disegnare ma hanno una sola matita. Cosa potresti fare al loro posto?” Per facilitare il lavoro, si possono proporre agli alunni delle soluzioni da cui partire come:

• fare a turno
• lasciare la matita al più bravo
• lasciare la matita il più forte
• cambiare gioco.   

La percezione del problema

Ci sono alcuni fattori che possono rendere difficile mettere in pratica la metodologia del problem solving. Prima ancora di cimentarsi a identificare il problema, è importante valutare quali sono:

• le credenze
• le emozioni
• gli obiettivi

che ci avvicinano o ci allontanano da una corretta messa a fuoco dell’evento problematico e dalla sua risoluzione. Le persone possono avere un orientamento positivo o negativo al problema.

Nel primo caso :

• tendono a valutare il problema come una sfida
• pensano che i problemi siano risolvibili e che sia necessario l’impiego di tempo ed energie per ottenere il successo
• provano un senso di fiducia nelle proprie capacità.

Nel secondo caso , invece:

• percepiscono il problema come una minaccia al proprio benessere
• provano frustrazione nel non ottenere tutto e subito
• tendono ad avere poca fiducia nelle proprie capacità di coping
• adottano comportamenti di evitamento nei confronti della situazione problematica.

Lavorare sull’orientamento negativo al problema, quindi, risulta fondamentale per la riuscita della risoluzione e, sia nella fase iniziale che in tutti i passaggi del problem solving, è importante tener conto di questo fenomeno per potervi intervenire qualora risulti necessario.

L’aiuto della psicoterapia

Mediante il problem solving possiamo risolvere qualsiasi tipo di problema, partendo dall’analisi del nostro modo di orientarci ad esso, dalla sua definizione e dalla scelta delle soluzioni alternative che possiamo mettere in atto.

Ma la capacità di risolvere i problemi si può imparare, oppure l’attitudine al problem solving è innata?  L’approccio cognitivo-comportamentale prevede la psicoeducazione al problem solving , per consentire all’individuo di acquisire nuove abilità e risorse necessarie a fronteggiare le difficoltà riportate in terapia.

Questo metodo, che possiamo utilizzare in qualsiasi contesto, ci consente anche di aumentare le nostre risorse personali , ampliando la nostra capacità di riflettere sui nostri pensieri e le nostre emozioni, e sulle credenze relative alle nostre capacità personali, quando affrontiamo un problema.

Alla luce di quanto detto, potrai fronteggiare il prossimo problema con una maggior consapevolezza rispetto alla sua natura e alle tue potenzialità. Non ti resta che provare!

Libri sul problem solving

Per approfondire l’argomento potrebbero aiutarti i seguenti libri: 

• Manuale di Problem Solving , V. Pazienza, HOW edizioni
• Problem solving strategico da tasca. L’arte di trovare soluzioni a problemi irrisolvibili , G. Nardone, Ponte alle Grazie  ‍
• La creatività e il problem solving , A. Fischetti, Alpha Test edizioni.

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The 5 steps of the solving problem process

August 17, 2023 by MindManager Blog

Whether you run a business, manage a team, or work in an industry where change is the norm, it may feel like something is always going wrong. Thankfully, becoming proficient in the problem solving process can alleviate a great deal of the stress that business issues can create.

Understanding the right way to solve problems not only takes the guesswork out of how to deal with difficult, unexpected, or complex situations, it can lead to more effective long-term solutions.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the 5 steps of problem solving, and help you explore a few examples of problem solving scenarios where you can see the problem solving process in action before putting it to work.

Understanding the problem solving process

When something isn’t working, it’s important to understand what’s at the root of the problem so you can fix it and prevent it from happening again. That’s why resolving difficult or complex issues works best when you apply proven business problem solving tools and techniques – from soft skills, to software.

The problem solving process typically includes:

• Pinpointing what’s broken by gathering data and consulting with team members.
• Figuring out why it’s not working by mapping out and troubleshooting the problem.
• Deciding on the most effective way to fix it by brainstorming and then implementing a solution.

While skills like active listening, collaboration, and leadership play an important role in problem solving, tools like visual mapping software make it easier to define and share problem solving objectives, play out various solutions, and even put the best fit to work.

Before you can take your first step toward solving a problem, you need to have a clear idea of what the issue is and the outcome you want to achieve by resolving it.

For example, if your company currently manufactures 50 widgets a day, but you’ve started processing orders for 75 widgets a day, you could simply say you have a production deficit.

However, the problem solving process will prove far more valuable if you define the start and end point by clarifying that production is running short by 25 widgets a day, and you need to increase daily production by 50%.

Once you know where you’re at and where you need to end up, these five steps will take you from Point A to Point B:

• Figure out what’s causing the problem . You may need to gather knowledge and evaluate input from different documents, departments, and personnel to isolate the factors that are contributing to your problem. Knowledge visualization software like MindManager can help.
• Come up with a few viable solutions . Since hitting on exactly the right solution – right away – can be tough, brainstorming with your team and mapping out various scenarios is the best way to move forward. If your first strategy doesn’t pan out, you’ll have others on tap you can turn to.
• Choose the best option . Decision-making skills, and software that lets you lay out process relationships, priorities, and criteria, are invaluable for selecting the most promising solution. Whether it’s you or someone higher up making that choice, it should include weighing costs, time commitments, and any implementation hurdles.
• Put your chosen solution to work . Before implementing your fix of choice, you should make key personnel aware of changes that might affect their daily workflow, and set up benchmarks that will make it easy to see if your solution is working.
• Evaluate your outcome . Now comes the moment of truth: did the solution you implemented solve your problem? Do your benchmarks show you achieved the outcome you wanted? If so, congratulations! If not, you’ll need to tweak your solution to meet your problem solving goal.

In practice, you might not hit a home-run with every solution you execute. But the beauty of a repeatable process like problem solving is that you can carry out steps 4 and 5 again by drawing from the brainstorm options you documented during step 2.

Examples of problem solving scenarios

The best way to get a sense of how the problem solving process works before you try it for yourself is to work through some simple scenarios.

Here are three examples of how you can apply business problem solving techniques to common workplace challenges.

Scenario #1: Manufacturing

Building on our original manufacturing example, you determine that your company is consistently short producing 25 widgets a day and needs to increase daily production by 50%.

Since you’d like to gather data and input from both your manufacturing and sales order departments, you schedule a brainstorming session to discover the root cause of the shortage.

After examining four key production areas – machines, materials, methods, and management – you determine the cause of the problem: the material used to manufacture your widgets can only be fed into your equipment once the machinery warms up to a specific temperature for the day.

Your team comes up with three possible solutions.

• Leave your machinery running 24 hours so it’s always at temperature.
• Invest in equipment that heats up faster.
• Find an alternate material for your widgets.

After weighing the expense of the first two solutions, and conducting some online research, you decide that switching to a comparable but less expensive material that can be worked at a lower temperature is your best option.

You implement your plan, monitor your widget quality and output over the following week, and declare your solution a success when daily production increases by 100%.

Scenario #2: Service Delivery

Business training is booming and you’ve had to onboard new staff over the past month. Now you learn that several clients have expressed concern about the quality of your recent training sessions.

After speaking with both clients and staff, you discover there are actually two distinct factors contributing to your quality problem:

• The additional conference room you’ve leased to accommodate your expanding training sessions has terrible acoustics
• The AV equipment you’ve purchased to accommodate your expanding workforce is on back-order – and your new hires have been making do without

You could look for a new conference room or re-schedule upcoming training sessions until after your new equipment arrives. But your team collaboratively determines that the best way to mitigate both issues at once is by temporarily renting the high-quality sound and visual system they need.

Using benchmarks that include several weeks of feedback from session attendees, and random session spot-checks you conduct personally, you conclude the solution has worked.

Scenario #3: Marketing

You’ve invested heavily in product marketing, but still can’t meet your sales goals. Specifically, you missed your revenue target by 30% last year and would like to meet that same target this year.

After collecting and examining reams of information from your sales and accounting departments, you sit down with your marketing team to figure out what’s hindering your success in the marketplace.

Determining that your product isn’t competitively priced, you map out two viable solutions.

• Hire a third-party specialist to conduct a detailed market analysis.
• Drop the price of your product to undercut competitors.

Since you’re in a hurry for results, you decide to immediately reduce the price of your product and market it accordingly.

When revenue figures for the following quarter show sales have declined even further – and marketing surveys show potential customers are doubting the quality of your product – you revert back to your original pricing, revisit your problem solving process, and implement the market analysis solution instead.

With the valuable information you gain, you finally arrive at just the right product price for your target market and sales begin to pick up. Although you miss your revenue target again this year, you meet it by the second quarter of the following year.

Kickstart your collaborative brainstorming sessions and  try MindManager for free today !

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Overview of the Problem-Solving Mental Process

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Rachel Goldman, PhD FTOS, is a licensed psychologist, clinical assistant professor, speaker, wellness expert specializing in eating behaviors, stress management, and health behavior change.

• Identify the Problem
• Define the Problem
• Form a Strategy
• Organize Information
• Allocate Resources
• Monitor Progress
• Evaluate the Results

Frequently Asked Questions

Problem-solving is a mental process that involves discovering, analyzing, and solving problems. The ultimate goal of problem-solving is to overcome obstacles and find a solution that best resolves the issue.

The best strategy for solving a problem depends largely on the unique situation. In some cases, people are better off learning everything they can about the issue and then using factual knowledge to come up with a solution. In other instances, creativity and insight are the best options.

It is not necessary to follow problem-solving steps sequentially, It is common to skip steps or even go back through steps multiple times until the desired solution is reached.

In order to correctly solve a problem, it is often important to follow a series of steps. Researchers sometimes refer to this as the problem-solving cycle. While this cycle is portrayed sequentially, people rarely follow a rigid series of steps to find a solution.

The following steps include developing strategies and organizing knowledge.

1. Identifying the Problem

While it may seem like an obvious step, identifying the problem is not always as simple as it sounds. In some cases, people might mistakenly identify the wrong source of a problem, which will make attempts to solve it inefficient or even useless.

Some strategies that you might use to figure out the source of a problem include :

• Asking questions about the problem
• Breaking the problem down into smaller pieces
• Looking at the problem from different perspectives
• Conducting research to figure out what relationships exist between different variables

2. Defining the Problem

After the problem has been identified, it is important to fully define the problem so that it can be solved. You can define a problem by operationally defining each aspect of the problem and setting goals for what aspects of the problem you will address

At this point, you should focus on figuring out which aspects of the problems are facts and which are opinions. State the problem clearly and identify the scope of the solution.

3. Forming a Strategy

After the problem has been identified, it is time to start brainstorming potential solutions. This step usually involves generating as many ideas as possible without judging their quality. Once several possibilities have been generated, they can be evaluated and narrowed down.

The next step is to develop a strategy to solve the problem. The approach used will vary depending upon the situation and the individual's unique preferences. Common problem-solving strategies include heuristics and algorithms.

• Heuristics are mental shortcuts that are often based on solutions that have worked in the past. They can work well if the problem is similar to something you have encountered before and are often the best choice if you need a fast solution.
• Algorithms are step-by-step strategies that are guaranteed to produce a correct result. While this approach is great for accuracy, it can also consume time and resources.

Heuristics are often best used when time is of the essence, while algorithms are a better choice when a decision needs to be as accurate as possible.

4. Organizing Information

Before coming up with a solution, you need to first organize the available information. What do you know about the problem? What do you not know? The more information that is available the better prepared you will be to come up with an accurate solution.

When approaching a problem, it is important to make sure that you have all the data you need. Making a decision without adequate information can lead to biased or inaccurate results.

5. Allocating Resources

Of course, we don't always have unlimited money, time, and other resources to solve a problem. Before you begin to solve a problem, you need to determine how high priority it is.

If it is an important problem, it is probably worth allocating more resources to solving it. If, however, it is a fairly unimportant problem, then you do not want to spend too much of your available resources on coming up with a solution.

At this stage, it is important to consider all of the factors that might affect the problem at hand. This includes looking at the available resources, deadlines that need to be met, and any possible risks involved in each solution. After careful evaluation, a decision can be made about which solution to pursue.

6. Monitoring Progress

After selecting a problem-solving strategy, it is time to put the plan into action and see if it works. This step might involve trying out different solutions to see which one is the most effective.

It is also important to monitor the situation after implementing a solution to ensure that the problem has been solved and that no new problems have arisen as a result of the proposed solution.

Effective problem-solvers tend to monitor their progress as they work towards a solution. If they are not making good progress toward reaching their goal, they will reevaluate their approach or look for new strategies .

7. Evaluating the Results

After a solution has been reached, it is important to evaluate the results to determine if it is the best possible solution to the problem. This evaluation might be immediate, such as checking the results of a math problem to ensure the answer is correct, or it can be delayed, such as evaluating the success of a therapy program after several months of treatment.

Once a problem has been solved, it is important to take some time to reflect on the process that was used and evaluate the results. This will help you to improve your problem-solving skills and become more efficient at solving future problems.

A Word From Verywell​

It is important to remember that there are many different problem-solving processes with different steps, and this is just one example. Problem-solving in real-world situations requires a great deal of resourcefulness, flexibility, resilience, and continuous interaction with the environment.

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You can become a better problem solving by:

• Practicing brainstorming and coming up with multiple potential solutions to problems
• Being open-minded and considering all possible options before making a decision
• Breaking down problems into smaller, more manageable pieces
• Asking for help when needed
• Researching different problem-solving techniques and trying out new ones
• Learning from mistakes and using them as opportunities to grow

It's important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner about what's going on. Try to see things from their perspective as well as your own. Work together to find a resolution that works for both of you. Be willing to compromise and accept that there may not be a perfect solution.

Take breaks if things are getting too heated, and come back to the problem when you feel calm and collected. Don't try to fix every problem on your own—consider asking a therapist or counselor for help and insight.

If you've tried everything and there doesn't seem to be a way to fix the problem, you may have to learn to accept it. This can be difficult, but try to focus on the positive aspects of your life and remember that every situation is temporary. Don't dwell on what's going wrong—instead, think about what's going right. Find support by talking to friends or family. Seek professional help if you're having trouble coping.

Davidson JE, Sternberg RJ, editors.  The Psychology of Problem Solving .  Cambridge University Press; 2003. doi:10.1017/CBO9780511615771

Sarathy V. Real world problem-solving .  Front Hum Neurosci . 2018;12:261. Published 2018 Jun 26. doi:10.3389/fnhum.2018.00261

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Brain Power

5 steps (and 4 techniques) for effective problem solving.

Problem solving is the process of reviewing every element of an issue so you can get to a solution or fix it. Problem solving steps cover multiple aspects of a problem that you can bring together to find a solution. Whether that’s in a group collaboratively or independently, the process remains the same, but the approach and the steps can differ.

To find a problem solving approach that works for you, your team, or your company, you have to take into consideration the environment you’re in and the personalities around you.

Knowing the characters in the room will help you decide on the best approach to try and ultimately get to the best solution.

Table of Contents

5 problem solving steps, 4 techniques to encourage problem solving, the bottom line.

No matter what the problem is, to solve it, you nearly always have to follow these problem solving steps. Missing any of these steps can cause the problem to either resurface or the solution to not be implemented correctly.

Once you know these steps, you can then get creative with the approach you take to find the solutions you need.

1. Define the Problem

You must define and understand the problem before you start, whether you’re solving it independently or as a group. If you don’t have a single view of what the problem is, you could be fixing something that doesn’t need fixing, or you’ll fix the wrong problem.

Spend time elaborating on the problem, write it down, and discuss everything, so you’re clear on why the problem is occurring and who it is impacting.

Once you have clarity on the problem, you then need to start thinking about every possible solution . This is where you go big and broad, as you want to come up with as many alternative solutions as possible. Don’t just take the first idea; build out as many as you can through active listening, as the more you create, the more likely you’ll find a solution that has the best impact on the team.

3. Decide on a Solution

Whichever solution you pick individually or as a team, make sure you think about the impact on others if you implement this solution. Ask questions like:

• How will they react to this change?
• Will they need to change anything?
• Who do we need to inform of this change?

4. Implement the Solution

At this stage of problem solving, be prepared for feedback, and plan for this. When you roll out the solution, request feedback on the success of the change made.

5. Review, Iterate, and Improve

Making a change shouldn’t be a one time action. Spend time reviewing the results of the change to make sure it’s made the required impact and met the desired outcomes.

Make changes where needed so you can further improve the solution implemented.

Each individual or team is going to have different needs and may need a different technique to encourage each of the problem solving steps. Try one of these to stimulate the process.

1-2-4 All Approach + Voting

The 1-2-4-All is a good problem solving approach that can work no matter how large the group is. Everyone is involved, and you can generate a vast amount of ideas quickly.

Ideas and solutions are discussed and organized rapidly, and what is great about this approach is the attendees own their ideas, so when it comes to implementing the solutions, you don’t have more work to gain buy-in.

As a facilitator, you first need to present the group with a question explaining the problem or situation. For example, “What actions or ideas would you recommend to solve the company’s lack of quiet working areas?”

With the question clear for all to see, the group then spends 5 minutes to reflect on the question individually. They can jot down their thoughts and ideas on Post-Its.

Now ask the participants to find one or two other people to discuss their ideas and thoughts with. Ask the group to move around to find a partner so they can mix with new people.

Ask the pairs to spend 5 minutes discussing their shared ideas and thoughts.

Next, put the group into groups of two or three pairs to make groups of 4-6. Each group shouldn’t be larger than six as the chances of everyone being able to speak reduces.

Ask the group to discuss one interesting idea they’ve heard in previous rounds, and each group member shares one each.

The group then needs to pick their preferred solution to the problem. This doesn’t have to be voted on, just one that resonated most with the group.

Then ask for three actions that could be taken to implement this change.

Bring everyone back together as a group and ask open questions like “What is the one thing you discussed that stood out for you?” or “Is there something you now see differently following these discussions?”

By the end of the session, you’ll have multiple approaches to solve the problem, and the whole group will have contributed to the future solutions and improvements.

The Lightning Decision Jam

The Lightning Decision Jam is a great way to solve problems collaboratively and agree on one solution or experiment you want to try straight away. It encourages team decision making, but at the same time, the individual can get their ideas and feedback across. [1]

If, as a team, you have a particular area you want to improve upon, like the office environment, for example, this approach is perfect to incorporate in the problem solving steps.

The approach follows a simple loop.

Make a Note – Stick It on The Wall – Vote – Prioritize

Using sticky notes, the technique identifies major problems, encourages solutions, and opens the group up for discussion. It allows each team member to play an active role in identifying both problems and ways to solve them.

Mind Mapping

Mind mapping is a fantastic visual thinking tool that allows you to bring problems to life by building out the connections and visualizing the relationships that make up the problem.

You can use a mind map to quickly expand upon the problem and give yourself the full picture of the causes of the problem, as well as solutions [2] .

The goal of a mind map is to simplify the problem and link the causes and solutions to the problem.

To create a mind map, you must first create the central topic (level 1). In this case, that’s the problem.

Next, create the linked topics (level 2) that you place around and connect to the main central topic with a simple line.

If the central topic is “The client is always changing their mind at the last minute,” then you could have linked topics like:

• How often does this happen?
• Why are they doing this?
• What are they asking for?
• How do they ask for it?
• What impact does this have?

Adding these linking topics allows you to start building out the main causes of the problem as you can begin to see the full picture of what you need to fix. Once you’re happy that you’ve covered the breadth of the problem and its issues, you can start to ideate on how you’re going to fix it with the problem solving steps.

Now, start adding subtopics (level 3) linking to each of the level 2 topics. This is where you can start to go big on solutions and ideas to help fix the problem.

For each of the linked topics (level 2), start to think about how you can prevent them, mitigate them, or improve them. As this is just ideas on paper, write down anything that comes to mind, even if you think the client will never agree to it!

The more you write down, the more ideas you’ll have until you find one or two that could solve the main problem.

Once you run out of ideas, take a step back and highlight your favorite solutions to take forward and implement.

The 5 Why’s

The five why’s can sound a little controversial, and you shouldn’t try this without prepping the team beforehand.

Asking “why” is a great way to go deep into the root of the problem to make the individual or team really think about the cause. When a problem arises, we often have preconceived ideas about why this problem has occurred, which is usually based on our experiences or beliefs.

Start with describing the problem, and then the facilitator can ask “Why?” fives time or more until you get to the root of the problem. It’s tough at first to keep being asked why, but it’s also satisfying when you get to the root of the problem [3] .

As a facilitator, although the basic approach is to ask why, you need to be careful not to guide the participant down a single route.

To help with this, you can use a mind map with the problem at the center. Then ask a why question that will result in multiple secondary topics around the central problem. Having this visual representation of the problem helps you build out more useful why questions around it.

Once you get to the root of the problem, don’t forget to be clear in the actions to put a fix in place to resolve it.

Learn more about how to use the five why’s here .

To fix a problem, you must first be in a position where you fully understand it. There are many ways to misinterpret a problem, and the best way to understand them is through conversation with the team or individuals who are experiencing it.

Once you’re aligned, you can then begin to work on the solutions that will have the greatest impact through effective problem solving steps.

For the more significant or difficult problems to solve, it’s often advisable to break the solution up into smaller actions or improvements.

Trial these improvements in short iterations, and then continue the conversations to review and improve the solution. Implementing all of these steps will help you root out the problems and find useful solutions each time.

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The 5 Steps of Problem Solving

Problem solving is a critical skill for success in business – in fact it’s often what you are hired and paid to do. This article explains the five problem solving steps and provides strategies on how to execute each one.

Defining Problem Solving

Before we talk about the stages of problem solving, it’s important to have a definition of what it is. Let’s look at the two roots of problem solving — problems and solutions.

Problem – a state of desire for reaching a definite goal from a present condition [1] Solution – the management of a problem in a way that successfully meets the goals set for treating it

[1] Problem solving on Wikipedia

One important call-out is the importance of having a goal. As defined above, the solution may not completely solve problem, but it does meet the goals you establish for treating it–you may not be able to completely resolve the problem (end world hunger), but you can have a goal to help it (reduce the number of starving children by 10%).

The Five Steps of Problem Solving

With that understanding of problem solving, let’s talk about the steps that can get you there. The five problem solving steps are shown in the chart below:

However this chart as is a little misleading. Not all problems follow these steps linearly, especially for very challenging problems. Instead, you’ll likely move back and forth between the steps as you continue to work on the problem, as shown below:

Let’s explore of these steps in more detail, understanding what it is and the inputs and outputs of each phase.

1. Define the Problem

aka What are you trying to solve? In addition to getting clear on what the problem is, defining the problem also establishes a goal for what you want to achieve.

Input:  something is wrong or something could be improved. Output: a clear definition of the opportunity and a goal for fixing it.

2. Brainstorm Ideas

aka What are some ways to solve the problem? The goal is to create a list of possible solutions to choose from. The harder the problem, the more solutions you may need.

Input: a goal; research of the problem and possible solutions; imagination. Output: pick-list of possible solutions that would achieve the stated goal.

3. Decide on a Solution

aka What are you going to do? The ideal solution is effective (it will meet the goal), efficient (is affordable), and has the fewest side effects (limited consequences from implementation).

Input:  pick-list of possible solutions; decision-making criteria. Output: decision of what solution you will implement.

4. Implement the Solution

aka What are you doing? The implementation of a solution requires planning and execution. It’s often iterative, where the focus should be on short implementation cycles with testing and feedback, not trying to get it “perfect” the first time.

Input:  decision; planning; hard work. Output:  resolution to the problem.

5. Review the Results

aka What did you do? To know you successfully solved the problem, it’s important to review what worked, what didn’t and what impact the solution had. It also helps you improve long-term problem solving skills and keeps you from re-inventing the wheel.

Input:  resolutions; results of the implementation. Output: insights; case-studies; bullets on your resume.

Improving Problem Solving Skills

Once you understand the five steps of problem solving, you can build your skill level in each one. Often we’re naturally good at a couple of the phases and not as naturally good at others. Some people are great at generating ideas but struggle implementing them. Other people have great execution skills but can’t make decisions on which solutions to use. Knowing the different problem solving steps allows you to work on your weak areas, or team-up with someone who’s strengths complement yours.

Want to improve your problem solving skills? Want to perfect the art of problem solving?  Check out our training programs or try these 20 problem solving activities to improve creativity .

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22 thoughts on “The 5 Steps of Problem Solving”

very helpful and informative training

Thank you for the information

YOU ARE AFOOL

I’m writing my 7th edition of Effective Security Management. I would like to use your circular graphic illustration in a new chapter on problem solving. You’re welcome to phone me at — with attribution.

Sure thing, shoot us an email at [email protected] .

i love your presentation. It’s very clear. I think I would use it in teaching my class problem solving procedures. Thank you

It is well defined steps, thank you.

these step can you email them to me so I can print them out these steps are very helpful

I like the content of this article, it is really helpful. I would like to know much on how PAID process (i.e. Problem statement, Analyze the problem, Identify likely causes, and Define the actual causes) works in Problem Solving.

very useful information on problem solving process.Thank you for the update.

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It makes sense that a business would want to have an effective problem solving strategy. Things could get bad if they can’t find solutions! I think one of the most important things about problem solving is communication.

Well in our school teacher teach us –

1) problem ldentification 2) structuring the problem 3) looking for possible solutions 4) lmplementation 5) monitoring or seeking feedback 6) decision making

Pleace write about it …

I teach Professional communication (Speech) and I find the 5 steps to problem solving as described here the best method. Your teacher actually uses 4 steps. The Feedback and decision making are follow up to the actual implementation and solving of the problem.

i know the steps of doing some guideline for problem solving

steps are very useful to solve my problem

The steps given are very effective. Thank you for the wonderful presentation of the cycle/steps/procedure and their connections.

I like the steps for problem solving

It is very useful for solving difficult problem i would reccomend it to a friend

this is very interesting because once u have learned you will always differentiate the right from the wrong.

I like the contents of the problem solving steps. informative.

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The Art of Effective Problem Solving: A Step-by-Step Guide

Author: Daniel Croft

Daniel Croft is an experienced continuous improvement manager with a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and a Bachelor's degree in Business Management. With more than ten years of experience applying his skills across various industries, Daniel specializes in optimizing processes and improving efficiency. His approach combines practical experience with a deep understanding of business fundamentals to drive meaningful change.

Whether we realise it or not, problem solving skills are an important part of our daily lives. From resolving a minor annoyance at home to tackling complex business challenges at work, our ability to solve problems has a significant impact on our success and happiness. However, not everyone is naturally gifted at problem-solving, and even those who are can always improve their skills. In this blog post, we will go over the art of effective problem-solving step by step.

You will learn how to define a problem, gather information, assess alternatives, and implement a solution, all while honing your critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. Whether you’re a seasoned problem solver or just getting started, this guide will arm you with the knowledge and tools you need to face any challenge with confidence. So let’s get started!

Problem Solving Methodologies

Individuals and organisations can use a variety of problem-solving methodologies to address complex challenges. 8D and A3 problem solving techniques are two popular methodologies in the Lean Six Sigma framework.

Methodology of 8D (Eight Discipline) Problem Solving:

The 8D problem solving methodology is a systematic, team-based approach to problem solving. It is a method that guides a team through eight distinct steps to solve a problem in a systematic and comprehensive manner.

The 8D process consists of the following steps:

• Form a team: Assemble a group of people who have the necessary expertise to work on the problem.
• Define the issue: Clearly identify and define the problem, including the root cause and the customer impact.
• Create a temporary containment plan: Put in place a plan to lessen the impact of the problem until a permanent solution can be found.
• Identify the root cause: To identify the underlying causes of the problem, use root cause analysis techniques such as Fishbone diagrams and Pareto charts.
• Create and test long-term corrective actions: Create and test a long-term solution to eliminate the root cause of the problem.
• Implement and validate the permanent solution: Implement and validate the permanent solution’s effectiveness.
• Prevent recurrence: Put in place measures to keep the problem from recurring.
• Recognize and reward the team: Recognize and reward the team for its efforts.

Download the 8D Problem Solving Template

A3 Problem Solving Method:

The A3 problem solving technique is a visual, team-based problem-solving approach that is frequently used in Lean Six Sigma projects. The A3 report is a one-page document that clearly and concisely outlines the problem, root cause analysis, and proposed solution.

The A3 problem-solving procedure consists of the following steps:

• Determine the issue: Define the issue clearly, including its impact on the customer.
• Perform root cause analysis: Identify the underlying causes of the problem using root cause analysis techniques.
• Create and implement a solution: Create and implement a solution that addresses the problem’s root cause.
• Monitor and improve the solution: Keep an eye on the solution’s effectiveness and make any necessary changes.

Subsequently, in the Lean Six Sigma framework, the 8D and A3 problem solving methodologies are two popular approaches to problem solving. Both methodologies provide a structured, team-based problem-solving approach that guides individuals through a comprehensive and systematic process of identifying, analysing, and resolving problems in an effective and efficient manner.

Step 1 – Define the Problem

The definition of the problem is the first step in effective problem solving. This may appear to be a simple task, but it is actually quite difficult. This is because problems are frequently complex and multi-layered, making it easy to confuse symptoms with the underlying cause. To avoid this pitfall, it is critical to thoroughly understand the problem.

To begin, ask yourself some clarifying questions:

• What exactly is the issue?
• What are the problem’s symptoms or consequences?
• Who or what is impacted by the issue?
• When and where does the issue arise?

Answering these questions will assist you in determining the scope of the problem. However, simply describing the problem is not always sufficient; you must also identify the root cause. The root cause is the underlying cause of the problem and is usually the key to resolving it permanently.

Try asking “why” questions to find the root cause:

• What causes the problem?
• Why does it continue?
• Why does it have the effects that it does?

By repeatedly asking “ why ,” you’ll eventually get to the bottom of the problem. This is an important step in the problem-solving process because it ensures that you’re dealing with the root cause rather than just the symptoms.

Once you have a firm grasp on the issue, it is time to divide it into smaller, more manageable chunks. This makes tackling the problem easier and reduces the risk of becoming overwhelmed. For example, if you’re attempting to solve a complex business problem, you might divide it into smaller components like market research, product development, and sales strategies.

To summarise step 1, defining the problem is an important first step in effective problem-solving. You will be able to identify the root cause and break it down into manageable parts if you take the time to thoroughly understand the problem. This will prepare you for the next step in the problem-solving process, which is gathering information and brainstorming ideas.

Step 2 – Gather Information and Brainstorm Ideas

Gathering information and brainstorming ideas is the next step in effective problem solving. This entails researching the problem and relevant information, collaborating with others, and coming up with a variety of potential solutions. This increases your chances of finding the best solution to the problem.

Begin by researching the problem and relevant information. This could include reading articles, conducting surveys, or consulting with experts. The goal is to collect as much information as possible in order to better understand the problem and possible solutions.

Next, work with others to gather a variety of perspectives. Brainstorming with others can be an excellent way to come up with new and creative ideas. Encourage everyone to share their thoughts and ideas when working in a group, and make an effort to actively listen to what others have to say. Be open to new and unconventional ideas and resist the urge to dismiss them too quickly.

Finally, use brainstorming to generate a wide range of potential solutions. This is the place where you can let your imagination run wild. At this stage, don’t worry about the feasibility or practicality of the solutions; instead, focus on generating as many ideas as possible. Write down everything that comes to mind, no matter how ridiculous or unusual it may appear. This can be done individually or in groups.

Once you’ve compiled a list of potential solutions, it’s time to assess them and select the best one. This is the next step in the problem-solving process, which we’ll go over in greater detail in the following section.

Step 3 – Evaluate Options and Choose the Best Solution

Once you’ve compiled a list of potential solutions, it’s time to assess them and select the best one. This is the third step in effective problem solving, and it entails weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each solution, considering their feasibility and practicability, and selecting the solution that is most likely to solve the problem effectively.

To begin, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each solution. This will assist you in determining the potential outcomes of each solution and deciding which is the best option. For example, a quick and easy solution may not be the most effective in the long run, whereas a more complex and time-consuming solution may be more effective in solving the problem in the long run.

Consider each solution’s feasibility and practicability. Consider the following:

• Can the solution be implemented within the available resources, time, and budget?
• What are the possible barriers to implementing the solution?
• Is the solution feasible in today’s political, economic, and social environment?

You’ll be able to tell which solutions are likely to succeed and which aren’t by assessing their feasibility and practicability.

Finally, choose the solution that is most likely to effectively solve the problem. This solution should be based on the criteria you’ve established, such as the advantages and disadvantages of each solution, their feasibility and practicability, and your overall goals.

It is critical to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to problems. What is effective for one person or situation may not be effective for another. This is why it is critical to consider a wide range of solutions and evaluate each one based on its ability to effectively solve the problem.

Step 4 – Implement and Monitor the Solution

When you’ve decided on the best solution, it’s time to put it into action. The fourth and final step in effective problem solving is to put the solution into action, monitor its progress, and make any necessary adjustments.

To begin, implement the solution. This may entail delegating tasks, developing a strategy, and allocating resources. Ascertain that everyone involved understands their role and responsibilities in the solution’s implementation.

Next, keep an eye on the solution’s progress. This may entail scheduling regular check-ins, tracking metrics, and soliciting feedback from others. You will be able to identify any potential roadblocks and make any necessary adjustments in a timely manner if you monitor the progress of the solution.

Finally, make any necessary modifications to the solution. This could entail changing the solution, altering the plan of action, or delegating different tasks. Be willing to make changes if they will improve the solution or help it solve the problem more effectively.

It’s important to remember that problem solving is an iterative process, and there may be times when you need to start from scratch. This is especially true if the initial solution does not effectively solve the problem. In these situations, it’s critical to be adaptable and flexible and to keep trying new solutions until you find the one that works best.

To summarise, effective problem solving is a critical skill that can assist individuals and organisations in overcoming challenges and achieving their objectives. Effective problem solving consists of four key steps: defining the problem, generating potential solutions, evaluating alternatives and selecting the best solution, and implementing the solution.

You can increase your chances of success in problem solving by following these steps and considering factors such as the pros and cons of each solution, their feasibility and practicability, and making any necessary adjustments. Furthermore, keep in mind that problem solving is an iterative process, and there may be times when you need to go back to the beginning and restart. Maintain your adaptability and try new solutions until you find the one that works best for you.

• Novick, L.R. and Bassok, M., 2005.  Problem Solving . Cambridge University Press.

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Daniel Croft

Daniel Croft is a seasoned continuous improvement manager with a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma. With over 10 years of real-world application experience across diverse sectors, Daniel has a passion for optimizing processes and fostering a culture of efficiency. He's not just a practitioner but also an avid learner, constantly seeking to expand his knowledge. Outside of his professional life, Daniel has a keen Investing, statistics and knowledge-sharing, which led him to create the website www.learnleansigma.com, a platform dedicated to Lean Six Sigma and process improvement insights.

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Problem Solving: Significato, Fasi, Creatività ed Esercizi

Problem solving , ogni problema necessita di una soluzione. Le funzioni cognitive di ragionamento, problem solving e decision making rientrano nelle capacità generali relative al pensiero umano e alla metacognizione . In psicologia, il pensiero viene definito come l’attività mentale di elaborazione di informazioni, riflessione e sviluppo di relazione tra dati. Insomma, cioè che afferisce alla nostra intelligenza ! Nel seguente articolo, in particolare, approfondiremo il meccanismo cognitivo del problem solving. Perché è importante conoscerlo?

Attenzione: insistere eccessivamente (senza alcun risultato) non è un bene! Non solo rende percettivamente più complicato il problema di quanto già non lo sia, ma può essere anche notevolmente frustrante e fonte di stress !

Scopriamolo insieme gradualmente e prepariamoci a raccogliere qualche utile suggerimento!

Problem Solving, Significato

Con il termine “ problem solving ” si intende un processo di soluzione dei problemi . E’ un atto mentale complesso, dove confluiscono modalità di elaborazione delle informazioni, di valutazione dei dati e formulazione di un giudizio, di pianificazione dell’azione e anticipazione delle conseguenze.

In Neuropsicologia è stato dimostrato che lesioni al lobo frontale e ai sistemi di controllo compromettono le capacità di problem-solving. In Psicologia Clinica , più specificatamente nell’ambito delle psicopatologie, il processo di problem-solving è compromesso in alcune patologie come il Ritardo Mentale e l’ ADHD , in cui risulta difficile il processo attentivo volto alla pianificazione delle azioni.

Tipi di Problema

Da un punto di vista più tecnico e analitico, un problema rientra in una delle seguenti categorie: sistemazione , induzione di una struttura , trasformazione . Partendo da questo presupposto, comprenderemo facilmente come la risoluzione di ciascun tipo di problema implichi un diverso genere di capacità psicologica e di conoscenza. Approfondiamo insieme le caratteristiche dei diversi tipi di problema.

Problema di Sistemazione

Il problema di sistemazione richiede che la persona ridisponga o ricombini gli elementi in un modo che soddisfi un certo criterio. Normalmente diverse disposizioni possono essere pensate, ma solo una o poche altre produrranno la soluzione. Gli anagrammi e i puzzle sono esempi di problema di sistemazione.

Anagramma : sostituzione di una parola con un’altra parola, nella quale le lettere che compongono la prima sono le stesse ma in posizione scambiata. Ad esempio anagrammi di Roma: Mora, Orma.

Problema di Induzione

Vediamo qualche esempio pratico.

Esempio 2. Completa la serie di numeri: “ 1 4 2 4 3 4 4 4 5 4 6 4 ? ?”.

Problema di Trasformazione

Cerchiamo di comprendere meglio di cosa si tratta attraverso un piccolo esercizio.

Problem Solving, Fasi

Havelock articola il processo di problem solving in 5 fasi:

Appare evidente come, secondo tale approccio, il processo di problem solving sia sistematico e derivi da una sequenza di azioni che permettono di arrivare a una soluzione ragionata.

Anche altri autori hanno analizzato il processo di problem solving, suddividendolo in fasi e focalizzando l’attenzione sugli aspetti cognitivi e logici di tale costrutto. In che modo? Rappresentandolo come una sequenza di azioni che si conclude con un feedback , il quale a sua volta può riavviare l’intera sequenza.

Problem Solving, Test

Tra i più diffusi c’è il Problem Solving Inventory di Happner, uno strumento di autovalutazione. Composto da 35 item che indagano l’efficacia percepita dal soggetto nell’affrontare la risoluzione di un problema e la tendenza generale nell’affrontare o evitare le attività di problem solving. Infine, il grado in cui l’individuo ritiene di poter controllare le proprie emozioni e reazioni durante la risoluzione dei problemi.

In psicologia dello sviluppo e psicologia scolastica , invece, la valutazione delle capacità di problem-solving dei bambini è predittrice non solo del funzionamento cognitivo e dei processi mentali attivati durante questa attività, ma anche delle capacità intrinseche del bambino che possono essere messe in atto in altri contesti della sua vita presente e futura.

Problem Solving e Creatività

L’insight è stato storicamente studiato nell’ambito della Psicologia della Gestalt .

Fissità Funzionale

Cosa ostacola e impedisce l’insight, inteso come atto di problem solving creativo? La fissità funzionale , studiata da Ducker . Con questo concetto egli intese la difficoltà degli individui di discostarsi da processi di pensiero già sperimentati in precedenza, e pertanto di trovare soluzioni nuove ad un problema . Ciò fu chiaramente verificato a livello sperimentale.

Pensiero Divergente

Per esempio, una caffetteria può diventare un fermacarte, una palla un puntaspilli .

Problem Solving, Esercizi

Possiamo imparare a “pensare meglio”? Possiamo potenziare la nostra capacità di essere risolutivi di fronte ai problemi?

Consideriamo, per esempio, alcuni dei seguenti suggerimenti per incoraggiare un problem solving creativo, efficace e in grado di soddisfare anche la nostra autostima.

Ridefinizione dei problemi

Utilizzo delle analogie.

I primi architetti scoprirono il modo per costruire i grattacieli tramite l’osservazione del modo in cui letti di ninfee sulla superficie dell’acqua riescono a sostenere il peso di una persona.

Pensare in modo divergente

Sperimentare diverse soluzioni.

Vedi anche: Comunicazione Assertiva

Assumere la prospettiva di un’altra persona

Analisi scritta.

Per attuare questa tecnica ci bastano carta e penna. Sul foglio prendiamo appunti del problema e delle sue caratteristiche. È necessario essere un pochino scrittori reporter e descrivere la problematica. Per facilitare questa procedura possiamo immaginare di porci delle domande e darci delle risposte. Ad esempio chiederci: “perché questa situazione mi crea preoccupazione?”, “perché la identifico come un problema?”, “chi è coinvolto nella difficoltà oltre me?” e così via. Così facendo possiamo mettere a fuoco la situazione problematica e predisporre delle risposte-azioni promettenti.

Giochi di ruolo

Vitania caramia, seguici sui social, articoli correlati, empatia, significato e definizione in psicologia: 5 strategie per allenarla, defusione: come allontanarsi dai pensieri inutili, autismo a basso funzionamento: disabilità intellettiva nello spettro, memoria: definizione, come funziona, tipi di memoria e test, insonnia: significato, sintomi, cause, insonnia in gravidanza e rimedi, sonno: fasi, rem e non rem, disturbi, paralisi e memoria, funzioni esecutive: cosa sono, sindrome frontale, valutazione ed esercizi, potenziamento cognitivo: definizione, misura e ambiti applicativi, terza età: definizione, invecchiamento positivo, anziani oggi, dolore: definizione, tipi, dolore cronico, come si misura, terapia, benessere cognitivo: sonno, esercizio fisico, sesso e alimentazione, memoria di lavoro: cos’è, come funziona e esercizi, craving: significato, sintomi, cause, forme e terapia, psicologia e dominio cognitivo: significato, sviluppo e funzionamento lifetime, attenzione: definizione, tipi di attenzione, disturbi, test ed esercizi, dissonanza cognitiva: cos’è, teoria, 3 modi per ridurla, cervello e cultura, decision making: definizione, cervello, psicologia, test, alzheimer: cos’è, sintomi, cause e stimolazione cognitiva, amnesia: definizione, cause, tipi di amnesia, trattamento.

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Problem Solving con Il metodo delle 5 W e la tecnica F.A.R.E

Posted on Giu 14, 2016 in Articoli , Blog | 20 comments

1. Who? Chi il referente? 2. What? Qual è l’obiettivo? 3. Where? Dove si deve intervenire? 4. When? Quando si deve intervenire? 5. Why? Perché lo si deve fare?

How? Come sviluppare il progetto? How much? Quante risorse possono essere investite?

La tecnica F.A.R.E.

Rimanendo sempre in ambito di Problem solving, un altro modello carino è quello denominato  F.A.R.E. (acronimo che racchiude tutte le fasi per il raggiungimento della soluzione):

1. Focalizzare : selezionare e definire il problema (capire qual è il problema e dargli il giusto peso. Circoscriverlo) 2. Analizzare : definire le informazioni da ricavare e la loro importanza per poi raccogliere i dati. 3. Risolvere : creare soluzioni alternative e selezionare la migliore. Sviluppare di un piano di attuazione. 4. Eseguire : definire l’obiettivo desiderato, eseguire il piano e monitorare dei risultati.

Buon lavoro!

20 Comments

A domani!!!

Yes!!! A domani!

Grazie Margherita! È una tecnica simpatica…

Bello però 😍

felice che ti sia piaciuta!

Non sempre si possono risolvere o eseguire. Buona serata

Vero Claudia… non in tutti i casi può funzionare come metodo. Buona serata anche a te.

Eh si….è cosi che si fa effettivamente…..non l avevo mai analizzato!

È un sistema utile Luciana! Non “copre” tutto… ma in molti casi si può utilizzare.

Grazie ! Buonanotte ☺☺🙄

buonanotte!

Io uso il metodo O.S.A. nel lavoro. Delinea gli Obiettivi, pianifica la Strategia per raggiungerli e Azione! 😉

Bello anche quello Daniela!

Sistema per me che da risultato, prendo appunti in una agenda, passo per passo, semplice devo farlo di nuovo, allora mi concentro, seno va in sacco roto!!! Buona serata-notte Franco!!!

Bello! Buona notte Paula!

Interessantissimo questo post!…l’ho messo in memoria!…F.A.R.E.!!! Grandiiiiissimo Capitano!!!

autostimarsi o non serve a nulla

Eh si… quello è un bel “mattone” dove appoggiarci tante cose…

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What is Problem Solving? (Steps, Techniques, Examples)

By Status.net Editorial Team on May 7, 2023 — 5 minutes to read

What Is Problem Solving?

Definition and importance.

Problem solving is the process of finding solutions to obstacles or challenges you encounter in your life or work. It is a crucial skill that allows you to tackle complex situations, adapt to changes, and overcome difficulties with ease. Mastering this ability will contribute to both your personal and professional growth, leading to more successful outcomes and better decision-making.

Problem-Solving Steps

The problem-solving process typically includes the following steps:

• Identify the issue : Recognize the problem that needs to be solved.
• Analyze the situation : Examine the issue in depth, gather all relevant information, and consider any limitations or constraints that may be present.
• Generate potential solutions : Brainstorm a list of possible solutions to the issue, without immediately judging or evaluating them.
• Evaluate options : Weigh the pros and cons of each potential solution, considering factors such as feasibility, effectiveness, and potential risks.
• Select the best solution : Choose the option that best addresses the problem and aligns with your objectives.
• Implement the solution : Put the selected solution into action and monitor the results to ensure it resolves the issue.
• Review and learn : Reflect on the problem-solving process, identify any improvements or adjustments that can be made, and apply these learnings to future situations.

Defining the Problem

To start tackling a problem, first, identify and understand it. Analyzing the issue thoroughly helps to clarify its scope and nature. Ask questions to gather information and consider the problem from various angles. Some strategies to define the problem include:

• Brainstorming with others
• Asking the 5 Ws and 1 H (Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How)
• Analyzing cause and effect
• Creating a problem statement

Generating Solutions

Once the problem is clearly understood, brainstorm possible solutions. Think creatively and keep an open mind, as well as considering lessons from past experiences. Consider:

• Creating a list of potential ideas to solve the problem
• Grouping and categorizing similar solutions
• Prioritizing potential solutions based on feasibility, cost, and resources required
• Involving others to share diverse opinions and inputs

Evaluating and Selecting Solutions

Evaluate each potential solution, weighing its pros and cons. To facilitate decision-making, use techniques such as:

• SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
• Decision-making matrices
• Pros and cons lists
• Risk assessments

After evaluating, choose the most suitable solution based on effectiveness, cost, and time constraints.

Implementing and Monitoring the Solution

Implement the chosen solution and monitor its progress. Key actions include:

• Communicating the solution to relevant parties
• Setting timelines and milestones
• Assigning tasks and responsibilities
• Monitoring the solution and making adjustments as necessary
• Evaluating the effectiveness of the solution after implementation

Utilize feedback from stakeholders and consider potential improvements. Remember that problem-solving is an ongoing process that can always be refined and enhanced.

Problem-Solving Techniques

During each step, you may find it helpful to utilize various problem-solving techniques, such as:

• Brainstorming : A free-flowing, open-minded session where ideas are generated and listed without judgment, to encourage creativity and innovative thinking.
• Root cause analysis : A method that explores the underlying causes of a problem to find the most effective solution rather than addressing superficial symptoms.
• SWOT analysis : A tool used to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to a problem or decision, providing a comprehensive view of the situation.
• Mind mapping : A visual technique that uses diagrams to organize and connect ideas, helping to identify patterns, relationships, and possible solutions.

Brainstorming

When facing a problem, start by conducting a brainstorming session. Gather your team and encourage an open discussion where everyone contributes ideas, no matter how outlandish they may seem. This helps you:

• Generate a diverse range of solutions
• Encourage all team members to participate
• Foster creative thinking

When brainstorming, remember to:

• Reserve judgment until the session is over
• Encourage wild ideas
• Combine and improve upon ideas

Root Cause Analysis

For effective problem-solving, identifying the root cause of the issue at hand is crucial. Try these methods:

• 5 Whys : Ask “why” five times to get to the underlying cause.
• Fishbone Diagram : Create a diagram representing the problem and break it down into categories of potential causes.
• Pareto Analysis : Determine the few most significant causes underlying the majority of problems.

SWOT Analysis

SWOT analysis helps you examine the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related to your problem. To perform a SWOT analysis:

• List your problem’s strengths, such as relevant resources or strong partnerships.
• Identify its weaknesses, such as knowledge gaps or limited resources.
• Explore opportunities, like trends or new technologies, that could help solve the problem.
• Recognize potential threats, like competition or regulatory barriers.

SWOT analysis aids in understanding the internal and external factors affecting the problem, which can help guide your solution.

Mind Mapping

A mind map is a visual representation of your problem and potential solutions. It enables you to organize information in a structured and intuitive manner. To create a mind map:

• Write the problem in the center of a blank page.
• Draw branches from the central problem to related sub-problems or contributing factors.
• Add more branches to represent potential solutions or further ideas.

Mind mapping allows you to visually see connections between ideas and promotes creativity in problem-solving.

Examples of Problem Solving in Various Contexts

In the business world, you might encounter problems related to finances, operations, or communication. Applying problem-solving skills in these situations could look like:

• Identifying areas of improvement in your company’s financial performance and implementing cost-saving measures
• Resolving internal conflicts among team members by listening and understanding different perspectives, then proposing and negotiating solutions
• Streamlining a process for better productivity by removing redundancies, automating tasks, or re-allocating resources

In educational contexts, problem-solving can be seen in various aspects, such as:

• Addressing a gap in students’ understanding by employing diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles
• Developing a strategy for successful time management to balance academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities
• Seeking resources and support to provide equal opportunities for learners with special needs or disabilities

Everyday life is full of challenges that require problem-solving skills. Some examples include:

• Overcoming a personal obstacle, such as improving your fitness level, by establishing achievable goals, measuring progress, and adjusting your approach accordingly
• Navigating a new environment or city by researching your surroundings, asking for directions, or using technology like GPS to guide you
• Dealing with a sudden change, like a change in your work schedule, by assessing the situation, identifying potential impacts, and adapting your plans to accommodate the change.
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40 problem-solving techniques and processes

All teams and organizations encounter challenges. Approaching those challenges without a structured problem solving process can end up making things worse.

Proven problem solving techniques such as those outlined below can guide your group through a process of identifying problems and challenges , ideating on possible solutions , and then evaluating and implementing the most suitable .

In this post, you'll find problem-solving tools you can use to develop effective solutions. You'll also find some tips for facilitating the problem solving process and solving complex problems.

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What is problem solving?

Problem solving is a process of finding and implementing a solution to a challenge or obstacle. In most contexts, this means going through a problem solving process that begins with identifying the issue, exploring its root causes, ideating and refining possible solutions before implementing and measuring the impact of that solution.

For simple or small problems, it can be tempting to skip straight to implementing what you believe is the right solution. The danger with this approach is that without exploring the true causes of the issue, it might just occur again or your chosen solution may cause other issues.

Particularly in the world of work, good problem solving means using data to back up each step of the process, bringing in new perspectives and effectively measuring the impact of your solution.

Effective problem solving can help ensure that your team or organization is well positioned to overcome challenges, be resilient to change and create innovation. In my experience, problem solving is a combination of skillset, mindset and process, and it’s especially vital for leaders to cultivate this skill.

What is the seven step problem solving process?

A problem solving process is a step-by-step framework from going from discovering a problem all the way through to implementing a solution.

With practice, this framework can become intuitive, and innovative companies tend to have a consistent and ongoing ability to discover and tackle challenges when they come up.

You might see everything from a four step problem solving process through to seven steps. While all these processes cover roughly the same ground, I’ve found a seven step problem solving process is helpful for making all key steps legible.

We’ll outline that process here and then follow with techniques you can use to explore and work on that step of the problem solving process with a group.

The seven-step problem solving process is:

1. Problem identification 

The first stage of any problem solving process is to identify the problem(s) you need to solve. This often looks like using group discussions and activities to help a group surface and effectively articulate the challenges they’re facing and wish to resolve.

Be sure to align with your team on the exact definition and nature of the problem you’re solving. An effective process is one where everyone is pulling in the same direction – ensure clarity and alignment now to help avoid misunderstandings later.

2. Problem analysis and refinement

The process of problem analysis means ensuring that the problem you are seeking to solve is  the   right problem . Choosing the right problem to solve means you are on the right path to creating the right solution.

At this stage, you may look deeper at the problem you identified to try and discover the root cause at the level of people or process. You may also spend some time sourcing data, consulting relevant parties and creating and refining a problem statement.

Problem refinement means adjusting scope or focus of the problem you will be aiming to solve based on what comes up during your analysis. As you analyze data sources, you might discover that the root cause means you need to adjust your problem statement. Alternatively, you might find that your original problem statement is too big to be meaningful approached within your current project.

Remember that the goal of any problem refinement is to help set the stage for effective solution development and deployment. Set the right focus and get buy-in from your team here and you’ll be well positioned to move forward with confidence.

3. Solution generation

Once your group has nailed down the particulars of the problem you wish to solve, you want to encourage a free flow of ideas connecting to solving that problem. This can take the form of problem solving games that encourage creative thinking or techniquess designed to produce working prototypes of possible solutions. 

The key to ensuring the success of this stage of the problem solving process is to encourage quick, creative thinking and create an open space where all ideas are considered. The best solutions can often come from unlikely places and by using problem solving techniques that celebrate invention, you might come up with solution gold. 

4. Solution development

No solution is perfect right out of the gate. It’s important to discuss and develop the solutions your group has come up with over the course of following the previous problem solving steps in order to arrive at the best possible solution. Problem solving games used in this stage involve lots of critical thinking, measuring potential effort and impact, and looking at possible solutions analytically. 

During this stage, you will often ask your team to iterate and improve upon your front-running solutions and develop them further. Remember that problem solving strategies always benefit from a multitude of voices and opinions, and not to let ego get involved when it comes to choosing which solutions to develop and take further.

Finding the best solution is the goal of all problem solving workshops and here is the place to ensure that your solution is well thought out, sufficiently robust and fit for purpose. 

5. Decision making and planning

Nearly there! Once you’ve got a set of possible, you’ll need to make a decision on which to implement. This can be a consensus-based group decision or it might be for a leader or major stakeholder to decide. You’ll find a set of effective decision making methods below.

Once your group has reached consensus and selected a solution, there are some additional actions that also need to be decided upon. You’ll want to work on allocating ownership of the project, figure out who will do what, how the success of the solution will be measured and decide the next course of action.

Set clear accountabilities, actions, timeframes, and follow-ups for your chosen solution. Make these decisions and set clear next-steps in the problem solving workshop so that everyone is aligned and you can move forward effectively as a group. 

Ensuring that you plan for the roll-out of a solution is one of the most important problem solving steps. Without adequate planning or oversight, it can prove impossible to measure success or iterate further if the problem was not solved. 

6. Solution implementation 

This is what we were waiting for! All problem solving processes have the end goal of implementing an effective and impactful solution that your group has confidence in.

Project management and communication skills are key here – your solution may need to adjust when out in the wild or you might discover new challenges along the way. For some solutions, you might also implement a test with a small group and monitor results before rolling it out to an entire company.

You should have a clear owner for your solution who will oversee the plans you made together and help ensure they’re put into place. This person will often coordinate the implementation team and set-up processes to measure the efficacy of your solution too.

7. Solution evaluation 

So you and your team developed a great solution to a problem and have a gut feeling it’s been solved. Work done, right? Wrong. All problem solving strategies benefit from evaluation, consideration, and feedback.

You might find that the solution does not work for everyone, might create new problems, or is potentially so successful that you will want to roll it out to larger teams or as part of other initiatives. 

None of that is possible without taking the time to evaluate the success of the solution you developed in your problem solving model and adjust if necessary.

Remember that the problem solving process is often iterative and it can be common to not solve complex issues on the first try. Even when this is the case, you and your team will have generated learning that will be important for future problem solving workshops or in other parts of the organization. 

It’s also worth underlining how important record keeping is throughout the problem solving process. If a solution didn’t work, you need to have the data and records to see why that was the case. If you go back to the drawing board, notes from the previous workshop can help save time.

What does an effective problem solving process look like?

Every effective problem solving process begins with an agenda . In our experience, a well-structured problem solving workshop is one of the best methods for successfully guiding a group from exploring a problem to implementing a solution.

The format of a workshop ensures that you can get buy-in from your group, encourage free-thinking and solution exploration before making a decision on what to implement following the session.

This Design Sprint 2.0 template is an effective problem solving process from top agency AJ&Smart. It’s a great format for the entire problem solving process, with four-days of workshops designed to surface issues, explore solutions and even test a solution.

Check it for an example of how you might structure and run a problem solving process and feel free to copy and adjust it your needs!

For a shorter process you can run in a single afternoon, this remote problem solving agenda will guide you effectively in just a couple of hours.

Whatever the length of your workshop, by using SessionLab, it’s easy to go from an idea to a complete agenda . Start by dragging and dropping your core problem solving activities into place . Add timings, breaks and necessary materials before sharing your agenda with your colleagues.

The resulting agenda will be your guide to an effective and productive problem solving session that will also help you stay organized on the day!

Complete problem-solving methods

In this section, we’ll look at in-depth problem-solving methods that provide a complete end-to-end process for developing effective solutions. These will help guide your team from the discovery and definition of a problem through to delivering the right solution.

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing method or problem-solving model, these processes are a great place to start. They’ll ask your team to challenge preconceived ideas and adopt a mindset for solving problems more effectively.

Six Thinking Hats

Individual approaches to solving a problem can be very different based on what team or role an individual holds. It can be easy for existing biases or perspectives to find their way into the mix, or for internal politics to direct a conversation.

Six Thinking Hats is a classic method for identifying the problems that need to be solved and enables your team to consider them from different angles, whether that is by focusing on facts and data, creative solutions, or by considering why a particular solution might not work.

Like all problem-solving frameworks, Six Thinking Hats is effective at helping teams remove roadblocks from a conversation or discussion and come to terms with all the aspects necessary to solve complex problems.

The Six Thinking Hats   #creative thinking   #meeting facilitation   #problem solving   #issue resolution   #idea generation   #conflict resolution   The Six Thinking Hats are used by individuals and groups to separate out conflicting styles of thinking. They enable and encourage a group of people to think constructively together in exploring and implementing change, rather than using argument to fight over who is right and who is wrong.

Lightning Decision Jam

Featured courtesy of Jonathan Courtney of AJ&Smart Berlin, Lightning Decision Jam is one of those strategies that should be in every facilitation toolbox. Exploring problems and finding solutions is often creative in nature, though as with any creative process, there is the potential to lose focus and get lost.

Unstructured discussions might get you there in the end, but it’s much more effective to use a method that creates a clear process and team focus.

In Lightning Decision Jam, participants are invited to begin by writing challenges, concerns, or mistakes on post-its without discussing them before then being invited by the moderator to present them to the group.

From there, the team vote on which problems to solve and are guided through steps that will allow them to reframe those problems, create solutions and then decide what to execute on. 

By deciding the problems that need to be solved as a team before moving on, this group process is great for ensuring the whole team is aligned and can take ownership over the next stages. 

Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ)   #action   #decision making   #problem solving   #issue analysis   #innovation   #design   #remote-friendly   It doesn’t matter where you work and what your job role is, if you work with other people together as a team, you will always encounter the same challenges: Unclear goals and miscommunication that cause busy work and overtime Unstructured meetings that leave attendants tired, confused and without clear outcomes. Frustration builds up because internal challenges to productivity are not addressed Sudden changes in priorities lead to a loss of focus and momentum Muddled compromise takes the place of clear decision- making, leaving everybody to come up with their own interpretation. In short, a lack of structure leads to a waste of time and effort, projects that drag on for too long and frustrated, burnt out teams. AJ&Smart has worked with some of the most innovative, productive companies in the world. What sets their teams apart from others is not better tools, bigger talent or more beautiful offices. The secret sauce to becoming a more productive, more creative and happier team is simple: Replace all open discussion or brainstorming with a structured process that leads to more ideas, clearer decisions and better outcomes. When a good process provides guardrails and a clear path to follow, it becomes easier to come up with ideas, make decisions and solve problems. This is why AJ&Smart created Lightning Decision Jam (LDJ). It’s a simple and short, but powerful group exercise that can be run either in-person, in the same room, or remotely with distributed teams.

Problem Definition Process

While problems can be complex, the problem-solving methods you use to identify and solve those problems can often be simple in design. 

By taking the time to truly identify and define a problem before asking the group to reframe the challenge as an opportunity, this method is a great way to enable change.

Begin by identifying a focus question and exploring the ways in which it manifests before splitting into five teams who will each consider the problem using a different method: escape, reversal, exaggeration, distortion or wishful. Teams develop a problem objective and create ideas in line with their method before then feeding them back to the group.

This method is great for enabling in-depth discussions while also creating space for finding creative solutions too!

Problem Definition   #problem solving   #idea generation   #creativity   #online   #remote-friendly   A problem solving technique to define a problem, challenge or opportunity and to generate ideas.

The 5 Whys 

Sometimes, a group needs to go further with their strategies and analyze the root cause at the heart of organizational issues. An RCA or root cause analysis is the process of identifying what is at the heart of business problems or recurring challenges. 

The 5 Whys is a simple and effective method of helping a group go find the root cause of any problem or challenge and conduct analysis that will deliver results. 

By beginning with the creation of a problem statement and going through five stages to refine it, The 5 Whys provides everything you need to truly discover the cause of an issue.

The 5 Whys   #hyperisland   #innovation   This simple and powerful method is useful for getting to the core of a problem or challenge. As the title suggests, the group defines a problems, then asks the question “why” five times, often using the resulting explanation as a starting point for creative problem solving.

World Cafe is a simple but powerful facilitation technique to help bigger groups to focus their energy and attention on solving complex problems.

World Cafe enables this approach by creating a relaxed atmosphere where participants are able to self-organize and explore topics relevant and important to them which are themed around a central problem-solving purpose. Create the right atmosphere by modeling your space after a cafe and after guiding the group through the method, let them take the lead!

Making problem-solving a part of your organization’s culture in the long term can be a difficult undertaking. More approachable formats like World Cafe can be especially effective in bringing people unfamiliar with workshops into the fold. 

World Cafe   #hyperisland   #innovation   #issue analysis   World Café is a simple yet powerful method, originated by Juanita Brown, for enabling meaningful conversations driven completely by participants and the topics that are relevant and important to them. Facilitators create a cafe-style space and provide simple guidelines. Participants then self-organize and explore a set of relevant topics or questions for conversation.

Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD)

One of the best approaches is to create a safe space for a group to share and discover practices and behaviors that can help them find their own solutions.

With DAD, you can help a group choose which problems they wish to solve and which approaches they will take to do so. It’s great at helping remove resistance to change and can help get buy-in at every level too!

This process of enabling frontline ownership is great in ensuring follow-through and is one of the methods you will want in your toolbox as a facilitator.

Discovery & Action Dialogue (DAD)   #idea generation   #liberating structures   #action   #issue analysis   #remote-friendly   DADs make it easy for a group or community to discover practices and behaviors that enable some individuals (without access to special resources and facing the same constraints) to find better solutions than their peers to common problems. These are called positive deviant (PD) behaviors and practices. DADs make it possible for people in the group, unit, or community to discover by themselves these PD practices. DADs also create favorable conditions for stimulating participants’ creativity in spaces where they can feel safe to invent new and more effective practices. Resistance to change evaporates as participants are unleashed to choose freely which practices they will adopt or try and which problems they will tackle. DADs make it possible to achieve frontline ownership of solutions.

Design Sprint 2.0

Want to see how a team can solve big problems and move forward with prototyping and testing solutions in a few days? The Design Sprint 2.0 template from Jake Knapp, author of Sprint, is a complete agenda for a with proven results.

Developing the right agenda can involve difficult but necessary planning. Ensuring all the correct steps are followed can also be stressful or time-consuming depending on your level of experience.

Use this complete 4-day workshop template if you are finding there is no obvious solution to your challenge and want to focus your team around a specific problem that might require a shortcut to launching a minimum viable product or waiting for the organization-wide implementation of a solution.

Open space technology

Open space technology- developed by Harrison Owen – creates a space where large groups are invited to take ownership of their problem solving and lead individual sessions. Open space technology is a great format when you have a great deal of expertise and insight in the room and want to allow for different takes and approaches on a particular theme or problem you need to be solved.

Start by bringing your participants together to align around a central theme and focus their efforts. Explain the ground rules to help guide the problem-solving process and then invite members to identify any issue connecting to the central theme that they are interested in and are prepared to take responsibility for.

Once participants have decided on their approach to the core theme, they write their issue on a piece of paper, announce it to the group, pick a session time and place, and post the paper on the wall. As the wall fills up with sessions, the group is then invited to join the sessions that interest them the most and which they can contribute to, then you’re ready to begin!

Everyone joins the problem-solving group they’ve signed up to, record the discussion and if appropriate, findings can then be shared with the rest of the group afterward.

Open Space Technology   #action plan   #idea generation   #problem solving   #issue analysis   #large group   #online   #remote-friendly   Open Space is a methodology for large groups to create their agenda discerning important topics for discussion, suitable for conferences, community gatherings and whole system facilitation

Techniques to identify and analyze problems

Using a problem-solving method to help a team identify and analyze a problem can be a quick and effective addition to any workshop or meeting.

While further actions are always necessary, you can generate momentum and alignment easily, and these activities are a great place to get started.

We’ve put together this list of techniques to help you and your team with problem identification, analysis, and discussion that sets the foundation for developing effective solutions.

Let’s take a look!

Fishbone Analysis

Organizational or team challenges are rarely simple, and it’s important to remember that one problem can be an indication of something that goes deeper and may require further consideration to be solved.

Fishbone Analysis helps groups to dig deeper and understand the origins of a problem. It’s a great example of a root cause analysis method that is simple for everyone on a team to get their head around. 

Participants in this activity are asked to annotate a diagram of a fish, first adding the problem or issue to be worked on at the head of a fish before then brainstorming the root causes of the problem and adding them as bones on the fish. 

Using abstractions such as a diagram of a fish can really help a team break out of their regular thinking and develop a creative approach.

Fishbone Analysis   #problem solving   ##root cause analysis   #decision making   #online facilitation   A process to help identify and understand the origins of problems, issues or observations.

Problem Tree 

Encouraging visual thinking can be an essential part of many strategies. By simply reframing and clarifying problems, a group can move towards developing a problem solving model that works for them. 

In Problem Tree, groups are asked to first brainstorm a list of problems – these can be design problems, team problems or larger business problems – and then organize them into a hierarchy. The hierarchy could be from most important to least important or abstract to practical, though the key thing with problem solving games that involve this aspect is that your group has some way of managing and sorting all the issues that are raised.

Once you have a list of problems that need to be solved and have organized them accordingly, you’re then well-positioned for the next problem solving steps.

Problem tree   #define intentions   #create   #design   #issue analysis   A problem tree is a tool to clarify the hierarchy of problems addressed by the team within a design project; it represents high level problems or related sublevel problems.

SWOT Analysis

Chances are you’ve heard of the SWOT Analysis before. This problem-solving method focuses on identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats is a tried and tested method for both individuals and teams.

Start by creating a desired end state or outcome and bare this in mind – any process solving model is made more effective by knowing what you are moving towards. Create a quadrant made up of the four categories of a SWOT analysis and ask participants to generate ideas based on each of those quadrants.

Once you have those ideas assembled in their quadrants, cluster them together based on their affinity with other ideas. These clusters are then used to facilitate group conversations and move things forward. 

SWOT analysis   #gamestorming   #problem solving   #action   #meeting facilitation   The SWOT Analysis is a long-standing technique of looking at what we have, with respect to the desired end state, as well as what we could improve on. It gives us an opportunity to gauge approaching opportunities and dangers, and assess the seriousness of the conditions that affect our future. When we understand those conditions, we can influence what comes next.

Agreement-Certainty Matrix

Not every problem-solving approach is right for every challenge, and deciding on the right method for the challenge at hand is a key part of being an effective team.

The Agreement Certainty matrix helps teams align on the nature of the challenges facing them. By sorting problems from simple to chaotic, your team can understand what methods are suitable for each problem and what they can do to ensure effective results. 

If you are already using Liberating Structures techniques as part of your problem-solving strategy, the Agreement-Certainty Matrix can be an invaluable addition to your process. We’ve found it particularly if you are having issues with recurring problems in your organization and want to go deeper in understanding the root cause. 

Agreement-Certainty Matrix   #issue analysis   #liberating structures   #problem solving   You can help individuals or groups avoid the frequent mistake of trying to solve a problem with methods that are not adapted to the nature of their challenge. The combination of two questions makes it possible to easily sort challenges into four categories: simple, complicated, complex , and chaotic .  A problem is simple when it can be solved reliably with practices that are easy to duplicate.  It is complicated when experts are required to devise a sophisticated solution that will yield the desired results predictably.  A problem is complex when there are several valid ways to proceed but outcomes are not predictable in detail.  Chaotic is when the context is too turbulent to identify a path forward.  A loose analogy may be used to describe these differences: simple is like following a recipe, complicated like sending a rocket to the moon, complex like raising a child, and chaotic is like the game “Pin the Tail on the Donkey.”  The Liberating Structures Matching Matrix in Chapter 5 can be used as the first step to clarify the nature of a challenge and avoid the mismatches between problems and solutions that are frequently at the root of chronic, recurring problems.

Organizing and charting a team’s progress can be important in ensuring its success. SQUID (Sequential Question and Insight Diagram) is a great model that allows a team to effectively switch between giving questions and answers and develop the skills they need to stay on track throughout the process. 

Begin with two different colored sticky notes – one for questions and one for answers – and with your central topic (the head of the squid) on the board. Ask the group to first come up with a series of questions connected to their best guess of how to approach the topic. Ask the group to come up with answers to those questions, fix them to the board and connect them with a line. After some discussion, go back to question mode by responding to the generated answers or other points on the board.

It’s rewarding to see a diagram grow throughout the exercise, and a completed SQUID can provide a visual resource for future effort and as an example for other teams.

SQUID   #gamestorming   #project planning   #issue analysis   #problem solving   When exploring an information space, it’s important for a group to know where they are at any given time. By using SQUID, a group charts out the territory as they go and can navigate accordingly. SQUID stands for Sequential Question and Insight Diagram.

To continue with our nautical theme, Speed Boat is a short and sweet activity that can help a team quickly identify what employees, clients or service users might have a problem with and analyze what might be standing in the way of achieving a solution.

Methods that allow for a group to make observations, have insights and obtain those eureka moments quickly are invaluable when trying to solve complex problems.

In Speed Boat, the approach is to first consider what anchors and challenges might be holding an organization (or boat) back. Bonus points if you are able to identify any sharks in the water and develop ideas that can also deal with competitors!   

Speed Boat   #gamestorming   #problem solving   #action   Speedboat is a short and sweet way to identify what your employees or clients don’t like about your product/service or what’s standing in the way of a desired goal.

The Journalistic Six

Some of the most effective ways of solving problems is by encouraging teams to be more inclusive and diverse in their thinking.

Based on the six key questions journalism students are taught to answer in articles and news stories, The Journalistic Six helps create teams to see the whole picture. By using who, what, when, where, why, and how to facilitate the conversation and encourage creative thinking, your team can make sure that the problem identification and problem analysis stages of the are covered exhaustively and thoughtfully. Reporter’s notebook and dictaphone optional.

The Journalistic Six – Who What When Where Why How   #idea generation   #issue analysis   #problem solving   #online   #creative thinking   #remote-friendly   A questioning method for generating, explaining, investigating ideas.

Individual and group perspectives are incredibly important, but what happens if people are set in their minds and need a change of perspective in order to approach a problem more effectively?

Flip It is a method we love because it is both simple to understand and run, and allows groups to understand how their perspectives and biases are formed. 

Participants in Flip It are first invited to consider concerns, issues, or problems from a perspective of fear and write them on a flip chart. Then, the group is asked to consider those same issues from a perspective of hope and flip their understanding.  

No problem and solution is free from existing bias and by changing perspectives with Flip It, you can then develop a problem solving model quickly and effectively.

Flip It!   #gamestorming   #problem solving   #action   Often, a change in a problem or situation comes simply from a change in our perspectives. Flip It! is a quick game designed to show players that perspectives are made, not born.

LEGO Challenge

Now for an activity that is a little out of the (toy) box. LEGO Serious Play is a facilitation methodology that can be used to improve creative thinking and problem-solving skills. 

The LEGO Challenge includes giving each member of the team an assignment that is hidden from the rest of the group while they create a structure without speaking.

What the LEGO challenge brings to the table is a fun working example of working with stakeholders who might not be on the same page to solve problems. Also, it’s LEGO! Who doesn’t love LEGO! 

LEGO Challenge   #hyperisland   #team   A team-building activity in which groups must work together to build a structure out of LEGO, but each individual has a secret “assignment” which makes the collaborative process more challenging. It emphasizes group communication, leadership dynamics, conflict, cooperation, patience and problem solving strategy.

What, So What, Now What?

If not carefully managed, the problem identification and problem analysis stages of the problem-solving process can actually create more problems and misunderstandings.

The What, So What, Now What? problem-solving activity is designed to help collect insights and move forward while also eliminating the possibility of disagreement when it comes to identifying, clarifying, and analyzing organizational or work problems. 

Facilitation is all about bringing groups together so that might work on a shared goal and the best problem-solving strategies ensure that teams are aligned in purpose, if not initially in opinion or insight.

Throughout the three steps of this game, you give everyone on a team to reflect on a problem by asking what happened, why it is important, and what actions should then be taken. 

This can be a great activity for bringing our individual perceptions about a problem or challenge and contextualizing it in a larger group setting. This is one of the most important problem-solving skills you can bring to your organization.

W³ – What, So What, Now What?   #issue analysis   #innovation   #liberating structures   You can help groups reflect on a shared experience in a way that builds understanding and spurs coordinated action while avoiding unproductive conflict. It is possible for every voice to be heard while simultaneously sifting for insights and shaping new direction. Progressing in stages makes this practical—from collecting facts about What Happened to making sense of these facts with So What and finally to what actions logically follow with Now What . The shared progression eliminates most of the misunderstandings that otherwise fuel disagreements about what to do. Voila!

Journalists  

Problem analysis can be one of the most important and decisive stages of all problem-solving tools. Sometimes, a team can become bogged down in the details and are unable to move forward.

Journalists is an activity that can avoid a group from getting stuck in the problem identification or problem analysis stages of the process.

In Journalists, the group is invited to draft the front page of a fictional newspaper and figure out what stories deserve to be on the cover and what headlines those stories will have. By reframing how your problems and challenges are approached, you can help a team move productively through the process and be better prepared for the steps to follow.

Journalists   #vision   #big picture   #issue analysis   #remote-friendly   This is an exercise to use when the group gets stuck in details and struggles to see the big picture. Also good for defining a vision.

Problem-solving techniques for brainstorming solutions

Now you have the context and background of the problem you are trying to solving, now comes the time to start ideating and thinking about how you’ll solve the issue.

Here, you’ll want to encourage creative, free thinking and speed. Get as many ideas out as possible and explore different perspectives so you have the raw material for the next step.

Looking at a problem from a new angle can be one of the most effective ways of creating an effective solution. TRIZ is a problem-solving tool that asks the group to consider what they must not do in order to solve a challenge.

By reversing the discussion, new topics and taboo subjects often emerge, allowing the group to think more deeply and create ideas that confront the status quo in a safe and meaningful way. If you’re working on a problem that you’ve tried to solve before, TRIZ is a great problem-solving method to help your team get unblocked.

Making Space with TRIZ   #issue analysis   #liberating structures   #issue resolution   You can clear space for innovation by helping a group let go of what it knows (but rarely admits) limits its success and by inviting creative destruction. TRIZ makes it possible to challenge sacred cows safely and encourages heretical thinking. The question “What must we stop doing to make progress on our deepest purpose?” induces seriously fun yet very courageous conversations. Since laughter often erupts, issues that are otherwise taboo get a chance to be aired and confronted. With creative destruction come opportunities for renewal as local action and innovation rush in to fill the vacuum. Whoosh!

Mindspin  

Brainstorming is part of the bread and butter of the problem-solving process and all problem-solving strategies benefit from getting ideas out and challenging a team to generate solutions quickly. 

With Mindspin, participants are encouraged not only to generate ideas but to do so under time constraints and by slamming down cards and passing them on. By doing multiple rounds, your team can begin with a free generation of possible solutions before moving on to developing those solutions and encouraging further ideation. 

This is one of our favorite problem-solving activities and can be great for keeping the energy up throughout the workshop. Remember the importance of helping people become engaged in the process – energizing problem-solving techniques like Mindspin can help ensure your team stays engaged and happy, even when the problems they’re coming together to solve are complex. 

MindSpin   #teampedia   #idea generation   #problem solving   #action   A fast and loud method to enhance brainstorming within a team. Since this activity has more than round ideas that are repetitive can be ruled out leaving more creative and innovative answers to the challenge.

The Creativity Dice

One of the most useful problem solving skills you can teach your team is of approaching challenges with creativity, flexibility, and openness. Games like The Creativity Dice allow teams to overcome the potential hurdle of too much linear thinking and approach the process with a sense of fun and speed. 

In The Creativity Dice, participants are organized around a topic and roll a dice to determine what they will work on for a period of 3 minutes at a time. They might roll a 3 and work on investigating factual information on the chosen topic. They might roll a 1 and work on identifying the specific goals, standards, or criteria for the session.

Encouraging rapid work and iteration while asking participants to be flexible are great skills to cultivate. Having a stage for idea incubation in this game is also important. Moments of pause can help ensure the ideas that are put forward are the most suitable. 

The Creativity Dice   #creativity   #problem solving   #thiagi   #issue analysis   Too much linear thinking is hazardous to creative problem solving. To be creative, you should approach the problem (or the opportunity) from different points of view. You should leave a thought hanging in mid-air and move to another. This skipping around prevents premature closure and lets your brain incubate one line of thought while you consciously pursue another.

Idea and Concept Development

Brainstorming without structure can quickly become chaotic or frustrating. In a problem-solving context, having an ideation framework to follow can help ensure your team is both creative and disciplined.

In this method, you’ll find an idea generation process that encourages your group to brainstorm effectively before developing their ideas and begin clustering them together. By using concepts such as Yes and…, more is more and postponing judgement, you can create the ideal conditions for brainstorming with ease.

Idea & Concept Development   #hyperisland   #innovation   #idea generation   Ideation and Concept Development is a process for groups to work creatively and collaboratively to generate creative ideas. It’s a general approach that can be adapted and customized to suit many different scenarios. It includes basic principles for idea generation and several steps for groups to work with. It also includes steps for idea selection and development.

Problem-solving techniques for developing and refining solutions 

The success of any problem-solving process can be measured by the solutions it produces. After you’ve defined the issue, explored existing ideas, and ideated, it’s time to develop and refine your ideas in order to bring them closer to a solution that actually solves the problem.

Use these problem-solving techniques when you want to help your team think through their ideas and refine them as part of your problem solving process.

Improved Solutions

After a team has successfully identified a problem and come up with a few solutions, it can be tempting to call the work of the problem-solving process complete. That said, the first solution is not necessarily the best, and by including a further review and reflection activity into your problem-solving model, you can ensure your group reaches the best possible result. 

One of a number of problem-solving games from Thiagi Group, Improved Solutions helps you go the extra mile and develop suggested solutions with close consideration and peer review. By supporting the discussion of several problems at once and by shifting team roles throughout, this problem-solving technique is a dynamic way of finding the best solution. 

Improved Solutions   #creativity   #thiagi   #problem solving   #action   #team   You can improve any solution by objectively reviewing its strengths and weaknesses and making suitable adjustments. In this creativity framegame, you improve the solutions to several problems. To maintain objective detachment, you deal with a different problem during each of six rounds and assume different roles (problem owner, consultant, basher, booster, enhancer, and evaluator) during each round. At the conclusion of the activity, each player ends up with two solutions to her problem.

Four Step Sketch

Creative thinking and visual ideation does not need to be confined to the opening stages of your problem-solving strategies. Exercises that include sketching and prototyping on paper can be effective at the solution finding and development stage of the process, and can be great for keeping a team engaged. 

By going from simple notes to a crazy 8s round that involves rapidly sketching 8 variations on their ideas before then producing a final solution sketch, the group is able to iterate quickly and visually. Problem-solving techniques like Four-Step Sketch are great if you have a group of different thinkers and want to change things up from a more textual or discussion-based approach.

Four-Step Sketch   #design sprint   #innovation   #idea generation   #remote-friendly   The four-step sketch is an exercise that helps people to create well-formed concepts through a structured process that includes: Review key information Start design work on paper,  Consider multiple variations , Create a detailed solution . This exercise is preceded by a set of other activities allowing the group to clarify the challenge they want to solve. See how the Four Step Sketch exercise fits into a Design Sprint

Ensuring that everyone in a group is able to contribute to a discussion is vital during any problem solving process. Not only does this ensure all bases are covered, but its then easier to get buy-in and accountability when people have been able to contribute to the process.

1-2-4-All is a tried and tested facilitation technique where participants are asked to first brainstorm on a topic on their own. Next, they discuss and share ideas in a pair before moving into a small group. Those groups are then asked to present the best idea from their discussion to the rest of the team.

This method can be used in many different contexts effectively, though I find it particularly shines in the idea development stage of the process. Giving each participant time to concretize their ideas and develop them in progressively larger groups can create a great space for both innovation and psychological safety.

1-2-4-All   #idea generation   #liberating structures   #issue analysis   With this facilitation technique you can immediately include everyone regardless of how large the group is. You can generate better ideas and more of them faster than ever before. You can tap the know-how and imagination that is distributed widely in places not known in advance. Open, generative conversation unfolds. Ideas and solutions are sifted in rapid fashion. Most importantly, participants own the ideas, so follow-up and implementation is simplified. No buy-in strategies needed! Simple and elegant!

15% Solutions

Some problems are simpler than others and with the right problem-solving activities, you can empower people to take immediate actions that can help create organizational change. 

Part of the liberating structures toolkit, 15% solutions is a problem-solving technique that focuses on finding and implementing solutions quickly. A process of iterating and making small changes quickly can help generate momentum and an appetite for solving complex problems.

Problem-solving strategies can live and die on whether people are onboard. Getting some quick wins is a great way of getting people behind the process.   

It can be extremely empowering for a team to realize that problem-solving techniques can be deployed quickly and easily and delineate between things they can positively impact and those things they cannot change. 

15% Solutions   #action   #liberating structures   #remote-friendly   You can reveal the actions, however small, that everyone can do immediately. At a minimum, these will create momentum, and that may make a BIG difference.  15% Solutions show that there is no reason to wait around, feel powerless, or fearful. They help people pick it up a level. They get individuals and the group to focus on what is within their discretion instead of what they cannot change.  With a very simple question, you can flip the conversation to what can be done and find solutions to big problems that are often distributed widely in places not known in advance. Shifting a few grains of sand may trigger a landslide and change the whole landscape.

Problem-solving techniques for making decisions and planning

After your group is happy with the possible solutions you’ve developed, now comes the time to choose which to implement. There’s more than one way to make a decision and the best option is often dependant on the needs and set-up of your group.

Sometimes, it’s the case that you’ll want to vote as a group on what is likely to be the most impactful solution. Other times, it might be down to a decision maker or major stakeholder to make the final decision. Whatever your process, here’s some techniques you can use to help you make a decision during your problem solving process.

How-Now-Wow Matrix

The problem-solving process is often creative, as complex problems usually require a change of thinking and creative response in order to find the best solutions. While it’s common for the first stages to encourage creative thinking, groups can often gravitate to familiar solutions when it comes to the end of the process. 

When selecting solutions, you don’t want to lose your creative energy! The How-Now-Wow Matrix from Gamestorming is a great problem-solving activity that enables a group to stay creative and think out of the box when it comes to selecting the right solution for a given problem.

Problem-solving techniques that encourage creative thinking and the ideation and selection of new solutions can be the most effective in organisational change. Give the How-Now-Wow Matrix a go, and not just for how pleasant it is to say out loud. 

How-Now-Wow Matrix   #gamestorming   #idea generation   #remote-friendly   When people want to develop new ideas, they most often think out of the box in the brainstorming or divergent phase. However, when it comes to convergence, people often end up picking ideas that are most familiar to them. This is called a ‘creative paradox’ or a ‘creadox’. The How-Now-Wow matrix is an idea selection tool that breaks the creadox by forcing people to weigh each idea on 2 parameters.

Impact and Effort Matrix

All problem-solving techniques hope to not only find solutions to a given problem or challenge but to find the best solution. When it comes to finding a solution, groups are invited to put on their decision-making hats and really think about how a proposed idea would work in practice. 

The Impact and Effort Matrix is one of the problem-solving techniques that fall into this camp, empowering participants to first generate ideas and then categorize them into a 2×2 matrix based on impact and effort.

Activities that invite critical thinking while remaining simple are invaluable. Use the Impact and Effort Matrix to move from ideation and towards evaluating potential solutions before then committing to them. 

Impact and Effort Matrix   #gamestorming   #decision making   #action   #remote-friendly   In this decision-making exercise, possible actions are mapped based on two factors: effort required to implement and potential impact. Categorizing ideas along these lines is a useful technique in decision making, as it obliges contributors to balance and evaluate suggested actions before committing to them.

If you’ve followed each of the problem-solving steps with your group successfully, you should move towards the end of your process with heaps of possible solutions developed with a specific problem in mind. But how do you help a group go from ideation to putting a solution into action? 

Dotmocracy – or Dot Voting -is a tried and tested method of helping a team in the problem-solving process make decisions and put actions in place with a degree of oversight and consensus. 

One of the problem-solving techniques that should be in every facilitator’s toolbox, Dot Voting is fast and effective and can help identify the most popular and best solutions and help bring a group to a decision effectively. 

Dotmocracy   #action   #decision making   #group prioritization   #hyperisland   #remote-friendly   Dotmocracy is a simple method for group prioritization or decision-making. It is not an activity on its own, but a method to use in processes where prioritization or decision-making is the aim. The method supports a group to quickly see which options are most popular or relevant. The options or ideas are written on post-its and stuck up on a wall for the whole group to see. Each person votes for the options they think are the strongest, and that information is used to inform a decision.

Straddling the gap between decision making and planning, MoSCoW is a simple and effective method that allows a group team to easily prioritize a set of possible options.

Use this method in a problem solving process by collecting and summarizing all your possible solutions and then categorize them into 4 sections: “Must have”, “Should have”, “Could have”, or “Would like but won‘t get”.

This method is particularly useful when its less about choosing one possible solution and more about prioritorizing which to do first and which may not fit in the scope of your project. In my experience, complex challenges often require multiple small fixes, and this method can be a great way to move from a pile of things you’d all like to do to a structured plan.

MoSCoW   #define intentions   #create   #design   #action   #remote-friendly   MoSCoW is a method that allows the team to prioritize the different features that they will work on. Features are then categorized into “Must have”, “Should have”, “Could have”, or “Would like but won‘t get”. To be used at the beginning of a timeslot (for example during Sprint planning) and when planning is needed.

When it comes to managing the rollout of a solution, clarity and accountability are key factors in ensuring the success of the project. The RAACI chart is a simple but effective model for setting roles and responsibilities as part of a planning session.

Start by listing each person involved in the project and put them into the following groups in order to make it clear who is responsible for what during the rollout of your solution.

• Responsibility  (Which person and/or team will be taking action?)
• Authority  (At what “point” must the responsible person check in before going further?)
• Accountability  (Who must the responsible person check in with?)
• Consultation  (Who must be consulted by the responsible person before decisions are made?)
• Information  (Who must be informed of decisions, once made?)

Ensure this information is easily accessible and use it to inform who does what and who is looped into discussions and kept up to date.

RAACI   #roles and responsibility   #teamwork   #project management   Clarifying roles and responsibilities, levels of autonomy/latitude in decision making, and levels of engagement among diverse stakeholders.

Problem-solving warm-up activities

All facilitators know that warm-ups and icebreakers are useful for any workshop or group process. Problem-solving workshops are no different.

Use these problem-solving techniques to warm up a group and prepare them for the rest of the process. Activating your group by tapping into some of the top problem-solving skills can be one of the best ways to see great outcomes from your session.

Check-in / Check-out

Solid processes are planned from beginning to end, and the best facilitators know that setting the tone and establishing a safe, open environment can be integral to a successful problem-solving process. Check-in / Check-out is a great way to begin and/or bookend a problem-solving workshop. Checking in to a session emphasizes that everyone will be seen, heard, and expected to contribute. 

If you are running a series of meetings, setting a consistent pattern of checking in and checking out can really help your team get into a groove. We recommend this opening-closing activity for small to medium-sized groups though it can work with large groups if they’re disciplined!

Check-in / Check-out   #team   #opening   #closing   #hyperisland   #remote-friendly   Either checking-in or checking-out is a simple way for a team to open or close a process, symbolically and in a collaborative way. Checking-in/out invites each member in a group to be present, seen and heard, and to express a reflection or a feeling. Checking-in emphasizes presence, focus and group commitment; checking-out emphasizes reflection and symbolic closure.

Doodling Together  

Thinking creatively and not being afraid to make suggestions are important problem-solving skills for any group or team, and warming up by encouraging these behaviors is a great way to start. 

Doodling Together is one of our favorite creative ice breaker games – it’s quick, effective, and fun and can make all following problem-solving steps easier by encouraging a group to collaborate visually. By passing cards and adding additional items as they go, the workshop group gets into a groove of co-creation and idea development that is crucial to finding solutions to problems. 

Doodling Together   #collaboration   #creativity   #teamwork   #fun   #team   #visual methods   #energiser   #icebreaker   #remote-friendly   Create wild, weird and often funny postcards together & establish a group’s creative confidence.

Show and Tell

You might remember some version of Show and Tell from being a kid in school and it’s a great problem-solving activity to kick off a session.

Asking participants to prepare a little something before a workshop by bringing an object for show and tell can help them warm up before the session has even begun! Games that include a physical object can also help encourage early engagement before moving onto more big-picture thinking.

By asking your participants to tell stories about why they chose to bring a particular item to the group, you can help teams see things from new perspectives and see both differences and similarities in the way they approach a topic. Great groundwork for approaching a problem-solving process as a team! 

Show and Tell   #gamestorming   #action   #opening   #meeting facilitation   Show and Tell taps into the power of metaphors to reveal players’ underlying assumptions and associations around a topic The aim of the game is to get a deeper understanding of stakeholders’ perspectives on anything—a new project, an organizational restructuring, a shift in the company’s vision or team dynamic.

Constellations

Who doesn’t love stars? Constellations is a great warm-up activity for any workshop as it gets people up off their feet, energized, and ready to engage in new ways with established topics. It’s also great for showing existing beliefs, biases, and patterns that can come into play as part of your session.

Using warm-up games that help build trust and connection while also allowing for non-verbal responses can be great for easing people into the problem-solving process and encouraging engagement from everyone in the group. Constellations is great in large spaces that allow for movement and is definitely a practical exercise to allow the group to see patterns that are otherwise invisible. 

Constellations   #trust   #connection   #opening   #coaching   #patterns   #system   Individuals express their response to a statement or idea by standing closer or further from a central object. Used with teams to reveal system, hidden patterns, perspectives.

Draw a Tree

Problem-solving games that help raise group awareness through a central, unifying metaphor can be effective ways to warm-up a group in any problem-solving model.

Draw a Tree is a simple warm-up activity you can use in any group and which can provide a quick jolt of energy. Start by asking your participants to draw a tree in just 45 seconds – they can choose whether it will be abstract or realistic. 

Once the timer is up, ask the group how many people included the roots of the tree and use this as a means to discuss how we can ignore important parts of any system simply because they are not visible.

All problem-solving strategies are made more effective by thinking of problems critically and by exposing things that may not normally come to light. Warm-up games like Draw a Tree are great in that they quickly demonstrate some key problem-solving skills in an accessible and effective way.

Draw a Tree   #thiagi   #opening   #perspectives   #remote-friendly   With this game you can raise awarness about being more mindful, and aware of the environment we live in.

Closing activities for a problem-solving process

Each step of the problem-solving workshop benefits from an intelligent deployment of activities, games, and techniques. Bringing your session to an effective close helps ensure that solutions are followed through on and that you also celebrate what has been achieved.

Here are some problem-solving activities you can use to effectively close a workshop or meeting and ensure the great work you’ve done can continue afterward.

One Breath Feedback

Maintaining attention and focus during the closing stages of a problem-solving workshop can be tricky and so being concise when giving feedback can be important. It’s easy to incur “death by feedback” should some team members go on for too long sharing their perspectives in a quick feedback round. 

One Breath Feedback is a great closing activity for workshops. You give everyone an opportunity to provide feedback on what they’ve done but only in the space of a single breath. This keeps feedback short and to the point and means that everyone is encouraged to provide the most important piece of feedback to them. 

One breath feedback   #closing   #feedback   #action   This is a feedback round in just one breath that excels in maintaining attention: each participants is able to speak during just one breath … for most people that’s around 20 to 25 seconds … unless of course you’ve been a deep sea diver in which case you’ll be able to do it for longer.

Who What When Matrix 

Matrices feature as part of many effective problem-solving strategies and with good reason. They are easily recognizable, simple to use, and generate results.

The Who What When Matrix is a great tool to use when closing your problem-solving session by attributing a who, what and when to the actions and solutions you have decided upon. The resulting matrix is a simple, easy-to-follow way of ensuring your team can move forward. 

Great solutions can’t be enacted without action and ownership. Your problem-solving process should include a stage for allocating tasks to individuals or teams and creating a realistic timeframe for those solutions to be implemented or checked out. Use this method to keep the solution implementation process clear and simple for all involved. 

Who/What/When Matrix   #gamestorming   #action   #project planning   With Who/What/When matrix, you can connect people with clear actions they have defined and have committed to.

Response cards

Group discussion can comprise the bulk of most problem-solving activities and by the end of the process, you might find that your team is talked out! 

Providing a means for your team to give feedback with short written notes can ensure everyone is head and can contribute without the need to stand up and talk. Depending on the needs of the group, giving an alternative can help ensure everyone can contribute to your problem-solving model in the way that makes the most sense for them.

Response Cards is a great way to close a workshop if you are looking for a gentle warm-down and want to get some swift discussion around some of the feedback that is raised. 

Response Cards   #debriefing   #closing   #structured sharing   #questions and answers   #thiagi   #action   It can be hard to involve everyone during a closing of a session. Some might stay in the background or get unheard because of louder participants. However, with the use of Response Cards, everyone will be involved in providing feedback or clarify questions at the end of a session.

Tips for effective problem solving

Problem-solving activities are only one part of the puzzle. While a great method can help unlock your team’s ability to solve problems, without a thoughtful approach and strong facilitation the solutions may not be fit for purpose.

Let’s take a look at some problem-solving tips you can apply to any process to help it be a success!

Clearly define the problem

Jumping straight to solutions can be tempting, though without first clearly articulating a problem, the solution might not be the right one. Many of the problem-solving activities below include sections where the problem is explored and clearly defined before moving on.

This is a vital part of the problem-solving process and taking the time to fully define an issue can save time and effort later. A clear definition helps identify irrelevant information and it also ensures that your team sets off on the right track.

Don’t jump to conclusions

It’s easy for groups to exhibit cognitive bias or have preconceived ideas about both problems and potential solutions. Be sure to back up any problem statements or potential solutions with facts, research, and adequate forethought.

The best techniques ask participants to be methodical and challenge preconceived notions. Make sure you give the group enough time and space to collect relevant information and consider the problem in a new way. By approaching the process with a clear, rational mindset, you’ll often find that better solutions are more forthcoming.  

Try different approaches  

Problems come in all shapes and sizes and so too should the methods you use to solve them. If you find that one approach isn’t yielding results and your team isn’t finding different solutions, try mixing it up. You’ll be surprised at how using a new creative activity can unblock your team and generate great solutions.

Don’t take it personally 

Depending on the nature of your team or organizational problems, it’s easy for conversations to get heated. While it’s good for participants to be engaged in the discussions, ensure that emotions don’t run too high and that blame isn’t thrown around while finding solutions.

You’re all in it together, and even if your team or area is seeing problems, that isn’t necessarily a disparagement of you personally. Using facilitation skills to manage group dynamics is one effective method of helping conversations be more constructive.

Get the right people in the room

Your problem-solving method is often only as effective as the group using it. Getting the right people on the job and managing the number of people present is important too!

If the group is too small, you may not get enough different perspectives to effectively solve a problem. If the group is too large, you can go round and round during the ideation stages.

Creating the right group makeup is also important in ensuring you have the necessary expertise and skillset to both identify and follow up on potential solutions. Carefully consider who to include at each stage to help ensure your problem-solving method is followed and positioned for success.

Create psychologically safe spaces for discussion

Identifying a problem accurately also requires that all members of a group are able to contribute their views in an open and safe manner.

It can be tough for people to stand up and contribute if the problems or challenges are emotive or personal in nature. Try and create a psychologically safe space for these kinds of discussions and where possible, create regular opportunities for challenges to be brought up organically.

Document everything

The best solutions can take refinement, iteration, and reflection to come out. Get into a habit of documenting your process in order to keep all the learnings from the session and to allow ideas to mature and develop. Many of the methods below involve the creation of documents or shared resources. Be sure to keep and share these so everyone can benefit from the work done!

Bring a facilitator 

Facilitation is all about making group processes easier. With a subject as potentially emotive and important as problem-solving, having an impartial third party in the form of a facilitator can make all the difference in finding great solutions and keeping the process moving. Consider bringing a facilitator to your problem-solving session to get better results and generate meaningful solutions!

Develop your problem-solving skills

It takes time and practice to be an effective problem solver. While some roles or participants might more naturally gravitate towards problem-solving, it can take development and planning to help everyone create better solutions.

You might develop a training program, run a problem-solving workshop or simply ask your team to practice using the techniques below. Check out our post on problem-solving skills to see how you and your group can develop the right mental process and be more resilient to issues too!

Design a great agenda

Workshops are a great format for solving problems. With the right approach, you can focus a group and help them find the solutions to their own problems. But designing a process can be time-consuming and finding the right activities can be difficult.

Check out our workshop planning guide to level-up your agenda design and start running more effective workshops. Need inspiration? Check out templates designed by expert facilitators to help you kickstart your process!

Save time and effort creating an effective problem solving process

A structured problem solving process is a surefire way of solving tough problems, discovering creative solutions and driving organizational change. But how can you design for successful outcomes?

With SessionLab, it’s easy to design engaging workshops that deliver results. Drag, drop and reorder blocks  to build your agenda. When you make changes or update your agenda, your session  timing   adjusts automatically , saving you time on manual adjustments.

Collaborating with stakeholders or clients? Share your agenda with a single click and collaborate in real-time. No more sending documents back and forth over email.

Explore  how to use SessionLab  to design effective problem solving workshops or  watch this five minute video  to see the planner in action!

Over to you

The problem-solving process can often be as complicated and multifaceted as the problems they are set-up to solve. With the right problem-solving techniques and a mix of exercises designed to guide discussion and generate purposeful ideas, we hope we’ve given you the tools to find the best solutions as simply and easily as possible.

Is there a problem-solving technique that you are missing here? Do you have a favorite activity or method you use when facilitating? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you! 

thank you very much for these excellent techniques

Certainly wonderful article, very detailed. Shared!

Your list of techniques for problem solving can be helpfully extended by adding TRIZ to the list of techniques. TRIZ has 40 problem solving techniques derived from methods inventros and patent holders used to get new patents. About 10-12 are general approaches. many organization sponsor classes in TRIZ that are used to solve business problems or general organiztational problems. You can take a look at TRIZ and dwonload a free internet booklet to see if you feel it shound be included per your selection process.

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Stumped five ways to hone your problem-solving skills.

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Respect the worth of other people's insights

Problems continuously arise in organizational life, making problem-solving an essential skill for leaders. Leaders who are good at tackling conundrums are likely to be more effective at overcoming obstacles and guiding their teams to achieve their goals. So, what’s the secret to better problem-solving skills?

1. Understand the root cause of the problem

“Too often, people fail because they haven’t correctly defined what the problem is,” says David Ross, an international strategist, founder of consultancy Phoenix Strategic Management and author of Confronting the Storm: Regenerating Leadership and Hope in the Age of Uncertainty .

Ross explains that as teams grapple with “wicked” problems – those where there can be several root causes for why a problem exists – there can often be disagreement on the initial assumptions made. As a result, their chances of successfully solving the problem are low.

“Before commencing the process of solving the problem, it is worthwhile identifying who your key stakeholders are and talking to them about the issue,” Ross recommends. “Who could be affected by the issue? What is the problem – and why? How are people affected?”

He argues that if leaders treat people with dignity, respecting the worth of their insights, they are more likely to successfully solve problems.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, 2. unfocus the mind.

“To solve problems, we need to commit to making time to face a problem in its full complexity, which also requires that we take back control of our thinking,” says Chris Griffiths, an expert on creativity and innovative thinking skills, founder and CEO of software provider OpenGenius, and co-author of The Focus Fix: Finding Clarity, Creativity and Resilience in an Overwhelming World .

To do this, it’s necessary to harness the power of the unfocused mind, according to Griffiths. “It might sound oxymoronic, but just like our devices, our brain needs time to recharge,” he says. “ A plethora of research has shown that daydreaming allows us to make creative connections and see abstract solutions that are not obvious when we’re engaged in direct work.”

To make use of the unfocused mind in problem solving, you must begin by getting to know the problem from all angles. “At this stage, don’t worry about actually solving the problem,” says Griffiths. “You’re simply giving your subconscious mind the information it needs to get creative with when you zone out. From here, pick a monotonous or rhythmic activity that will help you to activate the daydreaming state – that might be a walk, some doodling, or even some chores.”

Do this regularly, argues Griffiths, and you’ll soon find that flashes of inspiration and novel solutions naturally present themselves while you’re ostensibly thinking of other things. He says: “By allowing you to access the fullest creative potential of your own brain, daydreaming acts as a skeleton key for a wide range of problems.”

3. Be comfortable making judgment calls

“Admitting to not knowing the future takes courage,” says Professor Stephen Wyatt, founder and lead consultant at consultancy Corporate Rebirth and author of Antidote to the Crisis of Leadership: Opportunity in Complexity . “Leaders are worried our teams won’t respect us and our boards will lose faith in us, but what doesn’t work is drawing up plans and forecasts and holding yourself or others rigidly to them.”

Wyatt advises leaders to heighten their situational awareness – to look broadly, integrate more perspectives and be able to connect the dots. “We need to be comfortable in making judgment calls as the future is unknown,” he says. “There is no data on it. But equally, very few initiatives cannot be adjusted, refined or reviewed while in motion.”

Leaders need to stay vigilant, according to Wyatt, create the capacity of the enterprise to adapt and maintain the support of stakeholders. “The concept of the infallible leader needs to be updated,” he concludes.

4. Be prepared to fail and learn

“Organisations, and arguably society more widely, are obsessed with problems and the notion of problems,” says Steve Hearsum, founder of organizational change consultancy Edge + Stretch and author of No Silver Bullet: Bursting the Bubble of the Organisational Quick Fix .

Hearsum argues that this tendency is complicated by the myth of fixability, namely the idea that all problems, however complex, have a solution. “Our need for certainty, to minimize and dampen the anxiety of ‘not knowing,’ leads us to oversimplify and ignore or filter out anything that challenges the idea that there is a solution,” he says.

Leaders need to shift their mindset to cultivate their comfort with not knowing and couple that with being OK with being wrong, sometimes, notes Hearsum. He adds: “That means developing reflexivity to understand your own beliefs and judgments, and what influences these, asking questions and experimenting.”

5. Unleash the power of empathy

Leaders must be able to communicate problems in order to find solutions to them. But they should avoid bombarding their teams with complex, technical details since these can overwhelm their people’s cognitive load, says Dr Jessica Barker MBE , author of Hacked: The Secrets Behind Cyber Attacks .

Instead, she recommends that leaders frame their messages in ways that cut through jargon and ensure that their advice is relevant, accessible and actionable. “An essential leadership skill for this is empathy,” Barker explains. “When you’re trying to build a positive culture, it is crucial to understand why people are not practicing the behaviors you want rather than trying to force that behavioral change with fear, uncertainty and doubt.”

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Learn Creative Problem Solving Techniques to Stimulate Innovation in Your Organization

By Kate Eby | October 20, 2017 (updated August 27, 2021)

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In today’s competitive business landscape, organizations need processes in place to make strong, well-informed, and innovative decisions. Problem solving - in particular creative problem solving (CPS) - is a key skill in learning how to accurately identify problems and their causes, generate potential solutions, and evaluate all the possibilities to arrive at a strong corrective course of action. Every team in any organization, regardless of department or industry, needs to be effective, creative, and quick when solving problems. 

In this article, we’ll discuss traditional and creative problem solving, and define the steps, best practices, and common barriers associated. After that, we’ll provide helpful methods and tools to identify the cause(s) of problematic situations, so you can get to the root of the issue and start to generate solutions. Then, we offer nearly 20 creative problem solving techniques to implement at your organization, or even in your personal life. Along the way, experts weigh in on the importance of problem solving, and offer tips and tricks. 

What Is Problem Solving and Decision Making?

Problem solving is the process of working through every aspect of an issue or challenge to reach a solution. Decision making is choosing one of multiple proposed solutions  — therefore, this process also includes defining and evaluating all potential options. Decision making is often one step of the problem solving process, but the two concepts are distinct. 

Collective problem solving is problem solving that includes many different parties and bridges the knowledge of different groups. Collective problem solving is common in business problem solving because workplace decisions typically affect more than one person. 

Problem solving, especially in business, is a complicated science. Not only are business conflicts multifaceted, but they often involve different personalities, levels of authority, and group dynamics. In recent years, however, there has been a rise in psychology-driven problem solving techniques, especially for the workplace. In fact, the psychology of how people solve problems is now studied formally in academic disciplines such as psychology and cognitive science.

Joe Carella is the Assistant Dean for Executive Education at the University of Arizona . Joe has over 20 years of experience in helping executives and corporations in managing change and developing successful business strategies. His doctoral research and executive education engagements have seen him focus on corporate strategy, decision making and business performance with a variety of corporate clients including Hershey’s, Chevron, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, Intel, DP World, Essilor, BBVA Compass Bank.

He explains some of the basic psychology behind problem solving: “When our brain is engaged in the process of solving problems, it is engaged in a series of steps where it processes and organizes the information it receives while developing new knowledge it uses in future steps. Creativity is embedded in this process by incorporating diverse inputs and/or new ways of organizing the information received.”

Laura MacLeod is a Professor of Social Group Work at City University of New York, and the creator of From The Inside Out Project® , a program that coaches managers in team leadership for a variety of workplaces. She has a background in social work and over two decades of experience as a union worker, and currently leads talks on conflict resolution, problem solving, and listening skills at conferences across the country. 

MacLeod thinks of problem solving as an integral practice of successful organizations. “Problem solving is a collaborative process — all voices are heard and connected, and resolution is reached by the group,” she says. “Problems and conflicts occur in all groups and teams in the workplace, but if leaders involve everyone in working through, they will foster cohesion, engagement, and buy in. Everybody wins.”

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What Is the First Step in Solving a Problem?

Although problem solving techniques vary procedurally, experts agree that the first step in solving a problem is defining the problem. Without a clear articulation of the problem at stake, it is impossible to analyze all the key factors and actors, generate possible solutions, and then evaluate them to pick the best option. 

Dr. Elliott Jaffa is a behavioral and management psychologist with over 25 years of problem solving training and management experience. “Start with defining the problem you want to solve,” he says, “And then define where you want to be, what you want to come away with.” He emphasizes these are the first steps in creating an actionable, clear solution. 

Bryan Mattimore is Co-Founder of Growth Engine, an 18-year old innovation agency based in Norwalk, CT. Bryan has facilitated over 1,000 ideation sessions and managed over 200 successful innovation projects leading to over $3 billion in new sales. His newest book is 21 Days to a Big Idea . When asked about the first critical component to successful problem solving, Mattimore says, “Defining the challenge correctly, or ‘solving the right problem’ … The three creative techniques we use to help our clients ‘identify the right problem to be solved’ are questioning assumptions, 20 questions, and problem redefinition. A good example of this was a new product challenge from a client to help them ‘invent a new iron. We got them to redefine the challenge as first: a) inventing new anti-wrinkle devices, and then b) inventing new garment care devices.”

What Are Problem Solving Skills?

To understand the necessary skills in problem solving, you should first understand the types of thinking often associated with strong decision making. Most problem solving techniques look for a balance between the following binaries:

• Convergent vs. Divergent Thinking: Convergent thinking is bringing together disparate information or ideas to determine a single best answer or solution. This thinking style values logic, speed, and accuracy, and leaves no chance for ambiguity. Divergent thinking is focused on generating new ideas to identify and evaluate multiple possible solutions, often uniting ideas in unexpected combinations. Divergent thinking is characterized by creativity, complexity, curiosity, flexibility, originality, and risk-taking.
• Pragmatics vs. Semantics: Pragmatics refer to the logic of the problem at hand, and semantics is how you interpret the problem to solve it. Both are important to yield the best possible solution.
• Mathematical vs. Personal Problem Solving: Mathematical problem solving involves logic (usually leading to a single correct answer), and is useful for problems that involve numbers or require an objective, clear-cut solution. However, many workplace problems also require personal problem solving, which includes interpersonal, collaborative, and emotional intuition and skills. 

The following basic methods are fundamental problem solving concepts. Implement them to help balance the above thinking models.

• Reproductive Thinking: Reproductive thinking uses past experience to solve a problem. However, be careful not to rely too heavily on past solutions, and to evaluate current problems individually, with their own factors and parameters. 
• Idea Generation: The process of generating many possible courses of action to identify a solution. This is most commonly a team exercise because putting everyone’s ideas on the table will yield the greatest number of potential solutions. 

However, many of the most critical problem solving skills are “soft” skills: personal and interpersonal understanding, intuitiveness, and strong listening. 

Mattimore expands on this idea: “The seven key skills to be an effective creative problem solver that I detail in my book Idea Stormers: How to Lead and Inspire Creative Breakthroughs are: 1) curiosity 2) openness 3) a willingness to embrace ambiguity 4) the ability to identify and transfer principles across categories and disciplines 5) the desire to search for integrity in ideas, 6) the ability to trust and exercise “knowingness” and 7) the ability to envision new worlds (think Dr. Seuss, Star Wars, Hunger Games, Harry Potter, etc.).”

“As an individual contributor to problem solving it is important to exercise our curiosity, questioning, and visioning abilities,” advises Carella. “As a facilitator it is essential to allow for diverse ideas to emerge, be able to synthesize and ‘translate’ other people’s thinking, and build an extensive network of available resources.”

MacLeod says the following interpersonal skills are necessary to effectively facilitate group problem solving: “The abilities to invite participation (hear all voices, encourage silent members), not take sides, manage dynamics between the monopolizer, the scapegoat, and the bully, and deal with conflict (not avoiding it or shutting down).” 

Furthermore, Jaffa explains that the skills of a strong problem solver aren’t measurable. The best way to become a creative problem solver, he says, is to do regular creative exercises that keep you sharp and force you to think outside the box. Carella echoes this sentiment: “Neuroscience tells us that creativity comes from creating novel neural paths. Allow a few minutes each day to exercise your brain with novel techniques and brain ‘tricks’ – read something new, drive to work via a different route, count backwards, smell a new fragrance, etc.”

What Is Creative Problem Solving? History, Evolution, and Core Principles

Creative problem solving (CPS) is a method of problem solving in which you approach a problem or challenge in an imaginative, innovative way. The goal of CPS is to come up with innovative solutions, make a decision, and take action quickly. Sidney Parnes and Alex Osborn are credited with developing the creative problem solving process in the 1950s. The concept was further studied and developed at SUNY Buffalo State and the Creative Education Foundation. 

The core principles of CPS include the following:

• Balance divergent and convergent thinking
• Ask problems as questions
• Defer or suspend judgement
• Focus on “Yes, and…” rather than “No, but…”

According to Carella, “Creative problem solving is the mental process used for generating innovative and imaginative ideas as a solution to a problem or a challenge. Creative problem solving techniques can be pursued by individuals or groups.”

When asked to define CPS, Jaffa explains that it is, by nature, difficult to create boundaries for. “Creative problem solving is not cut and dry,” he says, “If you ask 100 different people the definition of creative problem solving, you’ll get 100 different responses - it’s a non-entity.”

Business presents a unique need for creative problem solving. Especially in today’s competitive landscape, organizations need to iterate quickly, innovate with intention, and constantly be at the cutting-edge of creativity and new ideas to succeed. Developing CPS skills among your workforce not only enables you to make faster, stronger in-the-moment decisions, but also inspires a culture of collaborative work and knowledge sharing. When people work together to generate multiple novel ideas and evaluate solutions, they are also more likely to arrive at an effective decision, which will improve business processes and reduce waste over time. In fact, CPS is so important that some companies now list creative problem solving skills as a job criteria.

MacLeod reiterates the vitality of creative problem solving in the workplace. “Problem solving is crucial for all groups and teams,” she says. “Leaders need to know how to guide the process, hear all voices and involve all members - it’s not easy.”

“This mental process [of CPS] is especially helpful in work environments where individuals and teams continuously struggle with new problems and challenges posed by their continuously changing environment,” adds Carella. 

Problem Solving Best Practices

By nature, creative problem solving does not have a clear-cut set of do’s and don’ts. Rather, creating a culture of strong creative problem solvers requires flexibility, adaptation, and interpersonal skills. However, there are a several best practices that you should incorporate:

• Use a Systematic Approach: Regardless of the technique you use, choose a systematic method that satisfies your workplace conditions and constraints (time, resources, budget, etc.). Although you want to preserve creativity and openness to new ideas, maintaining a structured approach to the process will help you stay organized and focused. 
• View Problems as Opportunities: Rather than focusing on the negatives or giving up when you encounter barriers, treat problems as opportunities to enact positive change on the situation. In fact, some experts even recommend defining problems as opportunities, to remain proactive and positive.
• Change Perspective: Remember that there are multiple ways to solve any problem. If you feel stuck, changing perspective can help generate fresh ideas. A perspective change might entail seeking advice of a mentor or expert, understanding the context of a situation, or taking a break and returning to the problem later. “A sterile or familiar environment can stifle new thinking and new perspectives,” says Carella. “Make sure you get out to draw inspiration from spaces and people out of your usual reach.”
• Break Down Silos: To invite the greatest possible number of perspectives to any problem, encourage teams to work cross-departmentally. This not only combines diverse expertise, but also creates a more trusting and collaborative environment, which is essential to effective CPS. According to Carella, “Big challenges are always best tackled by a group of people rather than left to a single individual. Make sure you create a space where the team can concentrate and convene.”
• Employ Strong Leadership or a Facilitator: Some companies choose to hire an external facilitator that teaches problem solving techniques, best practices, and practicums to stimulate creative problem solving. But, internal managers and staff can also oversee these activities. Regardless of whether the facilitator is internal or external, choose a strong leader who will value others’ ideas and make space for creative solutions.  Mattimore has specific advice regarding the role of a facilitator: “When facilitating, get the group to name a promising idea (it will crystalize the idea and make it more memorable), and facilitate deeper rather than broader. Push for not only ideas, but how an idea might specifically work, some of its possible benefits, who and when would be interested in an idea, etc. This fleshing-out process with a group will generate fewer ideas, but at the end of the day will yield more useful concepts that might be profitably pursued.” Additionally, Carella says that “Executives and managers don’t necessarily have to be creative problem solvers, but need to make sure that their teams are equipped with the right tools and resources to make this happen. Also they need to be able to foster an environment where failing fast is accepted and celebrated.”
• Evaluate Your Current Processes: This practice can help you unlock bottlenecks, and also identify gaps in your data and information management, both of which are common roots of business problems.

MacLeod offers the following additional advice, “Always get the facts. Don’t jump too quickly to a solution – working through [problems] takes time and patience.”

Mattimore also stresses that how you introduce creative problem solving is important. “Do not start by introducing a new company-wide innovation process,” he says. “Instead, encourage smaller teams to pursue specific creative projects, and then build a process from the ground up by emulating these smaller teams’ successful approaches. We say: ‘You don’t innovate by changing the culture, you change the culture by innovating.’”

Barriers to Effective Problem Solving

Learning how to effectively solve problems is difficult and takes time and continual adaptation. There are several common barriers to successful CPS, including:

• Confirmation Bias: The tendency to only search for or interpret information that confirms a person’s existing ideas. People misinterpret or disregard data that doesn’t align with their beliefs.
• Mental Set: People’s inclination to solve problems using the same tactics they have used to solve problems in the past. While this can sometimes be a useful strategy (see Analogical Thinking in a later section), it often limits inventiveness and creativity.
• Functional Fixedness: This is another form of narrow thinking, where people become “stuck” thinking in a certain way and are unable to be flexible or change perspective.
• Unnecessary Constraints: When people are overwhelmed with a problem, they can invent and impose additional limits on solution avenues. To avoid doing this, maintain a structured, level-headed approach to evaluating causes, effects, and potential solutions.
• Groupthink: Be wary of the tendency for group members to agree with each other — this might be out of conflict avoidance, path of least resistance, or fear of speaking up. While this agreeableness might make meetings run smoothly, it can actually stunt creativity and idea generation, therefore limiting the success of your chosen solution.
• Irrelevant Information: The tendency to pile on multiple problems and factors that may not even be related to the challenge at hand. This can cloud the team’s ability to find direct, targeted solutions.
• Paradigm Blindness: This is found in people who are unwilling to adapt or change their worldview, outlook on a particular problem, or typical way of processing information. This can erode the effectiveness of problem solving techniques because they are not aware of the narrowness of their thinking, and therefore cannot think or act outside of their comfort zone.

According to Jaffa, the primary barrier of effective problem solving is rigidity. “The most common things people say are, ‘We’ve never done it before,’ or ‘We’ve always done it this way.’” While these feelings are natural, Jaffa explains that this rigid thinking actually precludes teams from identifying creative, inventive solutions that result in the greatest benefit.

“The biggest barrier to creative problem solving is a lack of awareness – and commitment to – training employees in state-of-the-art creative problem-solving techniques,” Mattimore explains. “We teach our clients how to use ideation techniques (as many as two-dozen different creative thinking techniques) to help them generate more and better ideas. Ideation techniques use specific and customized stimuli, or ‘thought triggers’ to inspire new thinking and new ideas.” 

MacLeod adds that ineffective or rushed leadership is another common culprit. “We're always in a rush to fix quickly,” she says. “Sometimes leaders just solve problems themselves, making unilateral decisions to save time. But the investment is well worth it — leaders will have less on their plates if they can teach and eventually trust the team to resolve. Teams feel empowered and engagement and investment increases.”

Strategies for Problem Cause Identification

As discussed, most experts agree that the first and most crucial step in problem solving is defining the problem. Once you’ve done this, however, it may not be appropriate to move straight to the solution phase. Rather, it is often helpful to identify the cause(s) of the problem: This will better inform your solution planning and execution, and help ensure that you don’t fall victim to the same challenges in the future. 

Below are some of the most common strategies for identifying the cause of a problem:

• Root Cause Analysis: This method helps identify the most critical cause of a problem. A factor is considered a root cause if removing it prevents the problem from recurring. Performing a root cause analysis is a 12 step process that includes: define the problem, gather data on the factors contributing to the problem, group the factors based on shared characteristics, and create a cause-and-effect timeline to determine the root cause. After that, you identify and evaluate corrective actions to eliminate the root cause.

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Problem Solving Techniques and Strategies

In this section, we’ll explain several traditional and creative problem solving methods that you can use to identify challenges, create actionable goals, and resolve problems as they arise. Although there is often procedural and objective crossover among techniques, they are grouped by theme so you can identify which method works best for your organization.

Divergent Creative Problem Solving Techniques

Brainstorming: One of the most common methods of divergent thinking, brainstorming works best in an open group setting where everyone is encouraged to share their creative ideas. The goal is to generate as many ideas as possible – you analyze, critique, and evaluate the ideas only after the brainstorming session is complete. To learn more specific brainstorming techniques, read this article . 

Mind Mapping: This is a visual thinking tool where you graphically depict concepts and their relation to one another. You can use mind mapping to structure the information you have, analyze and synthesize it, and generate solutions and new ideas from there. The goal of a mind map is to simplify complicated problems so you can more clearly identify solutions.

Appreciative Inquiry (AI): The basic assumption of AI is that “an organization is a mystery to be embraced.” Using this principle, AI takes a positive, inquisitive approach to identifying the problem, analyzing the causes, and presenting possible solutions. The five principles of AI emphasize dialogue, deliberate language and outlook, and social bonding. 

Lateral Thinking: This is an indirect problem solving approach centered on the momentum of idea generation. As opposed to critical thinking, where people value ideas based on their truth and the absence of errors, lateral thinking values the “movement value” of new ideas: This means that you reward team members for producing a large volume of new ideas rapidly. With this approach, you’ll generate many new ideas before approving or rejecting any.

Problem Solving Techniques to Change Perspective

Constructive Controversy: This is a structured approach to group decision making to preserve critical thinking and disagreement while maintaining order. After defining the problem and presenting multiple courses of action, the group divides into small advocacy teams who research, analyze, and refute a particular option. Once each advocacy team has presented its best-case scenario, the group has a discussion (advocacy teams still defend their presented idea). Arguing and playing devil’s advocate is encouraged to reach an understanding of the pros and cons of each option. Next, advocacy teams abandon their cause and evaluate the options openly until they reach a consensus. All team members formally commit to the decision, regardless of whether they advocated for it at the beginning. You can learn more about the goals and steps in constructive controversy here . 

Carella is a fan of this approach. “Create constructive controversy by having two teams argue the pros and cons of a certain idea,” he says. “It forces unconscious biases to surface and gives space for new ideas to formulate.”

Abstraction: In this method, you apply the problem to a fictional model of the current situation. Mapping an issue to an abstract situation can shed extraneous or irrelevant factors, and reveal places where you are overlooking obvious solutions or becoming bogged down by circumstances. 

Analogical Thinking: Also called analogical reasoning , this method relies on an analogy: using information from one problem to solve another problem (these separate problems are called domains). It can be difficult for teams to create analogies among unrelated problems, but it is a strong technique to help you identify repeated issues, zoom out and change perspective, and prevent the problems from occurring in the future. .

CATWOE: This framework ensures that you evaluate the perspectives of those whom your decision will impact. The factors and questions to consider include (which combine to make the acronym CATWOE):

• Customers: Who is on the receiving end of your decisions? What problem do they currently have, and how will they react to your proposed solution?
• Actors: Who is acting to bring your solution to fruition? How will they respond and be affected by your decision?
• Transformation Process: What processes will you employ to transform your current situation and meet your goals? What are the inputs and outputs?
• World View: What is the larger context of your proposed solution? What is the larger, big-picture problem you are addressing?
• Owner: Who actually owns the process? How might they influence your proposed solution (positively or negatively), and how can you influence them to help you?
• Environmental Constraints: What are the limits (environmental, resource- and budget-wise, ethical, legal, etc.) on your ideas? How will you revise or work around these constraints?

Complex Problem Solving

Soft Systems Methodology (SSM): For extremely complex problems, SSM can help you identify how factors interact, and determine the best course of action. SSM was borne out of organizational process modeling and general systems theory, which hold that everything is part of a greater, interconnected system: This idea works well for “hard” problems (where logic and a single correct answer are prioritized), and less so for “soft” problems (i.e., human problems where factors such as personality, emotions, and hierarchy come into play). Therefore, SSM defines a seven step process for problem solving: 

• Begin with the problem or problematic situation 
• Express the problem or situation and build a rich picture of the themes of the problem 
• Identify the root causes of the problem (most commonly with CATWOE)
• Build conceptual models of human activity surrounding the problem or situation
• Compare models with real-world happenings
• Identify changes to the situation that are both feasible and desirable
• Take action to implement changes and improve the problematic situation

SSM can be used for any complex soft problem, and is also a useful tool in change management . 

Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA): This method helps teams anticipate potential problems and take steps to mitigate them. Use FMEA when you are designing (redesigning) a complex function, process, product, or service. First, identify the failure modes, which are the possible ways that a project could fail. Then, perform an effects analysis to understand the consequences of each of the potential downfalls. This exercise is useful for internalizing the severity of each potential failure and its effects so you can make adjustments or safeties in your plan. 

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Problem Solving Based on Data or Logic (Heuristic Methods)

TRIZ: A Russian-developed problem solving technique that values logic, analysis, and forecasting over intuition or soft reasoning. TRIZ (translated to “theory of inventive problem solving” or TIPS in English) is a systematic approach to defining and identifying an inventive solution to difficult problems. The method offers several strategies for arriving at an inventive solution, including a contradictions matrix to assess trade-offs among solutions, a Su-Field analysis which uses formulas to describe a system by its structure, and ARIZ (algorithm of inventive problem solving) which uses algorithms to find inventive solutions. 

Inductive Reasoning: A logical method that uses evidence to conclude that a certain answer is probable (this is opposed to deductive reasoning, where the answer is assumed to be true). Inductive reasoning uses a limited number of observations to make useful, logical conclusions (for example, the Scientific Method is an extreme example of inductive reasoning). However, this method doesn’t always map well to human problems in the workplace — in these instances, managers should employ intuitive inductive reasoning , which allows for more automatic, implicit conclusions so that work can progress. This, of course, retains the principle that these intuitive conclusions are not necessarily the one and only correct answer. 

Process-Oriented Problem Solving Methods

Plan Do Check Act (PDCA): This is an iterative management technique used to ensure continual improvement of products or processes. First, teams plan (establish objectives to meet desired end results), then do (implement the plan, new processes, or produce the output), then check (compare expected with actual results), and finally act (define how the organization will act in the future, based on the performance and knowledge gained in the previous three steps). 

Means-End Analysis (MEA): The MEA strategy is to reduce the difference between the current (problematic) state and the goal state. To do so, teams compile information on the multiple factors that contribute to the disparity between the current and goal states. Then they try to change or eliminate the factors one by one, beginning with the factor responsible for the greatest difference in current and goal state. By systematically tackling the multiple factors that cause disparity between the problem and desired outcome, teams can better focus energy and control each step of the process. 

Hurson’s Productive Thinking Model: This technique was developed by Tim Hurson, and is detailed in his 2007 book Think Better: An Innovator’s Guide to Productive Thinking . The model outlines six steps that are meant to give structure while maintaining creativity and critical thinking: 1) Ask “What is going on?” 2) Ask “What is success?” 3) Ask “What is the question?” 4) Generate answers 5) Forge the solution 6) Align resources. 

Control Influence Accept (CIA): The basic premise of CIA is that how you respond to problems determines how successful you will be in overcoming them. Therefore, this model is both a problem solving technique and stress-management tool that ensures you aren’t responding to problems in a reactive and unproductive way. The steps in CIA include:

• Control: Identify the aspects of the problem that are within your control.
• Influence: Identify the aspects of the problem that you cannot control, but that you can influence.
• Accept: Identify the aspects of the problem that you can neither control nor influence, and react based on this composite information. 

GROW Model: This is a straightforward problem solving method for goal setting that clearly defines your goals and current situation, and then asks you to define the potential solutions and be realistic about your chosen course of action. The steps break down as follows:

• Goal: What do you want?
• Reality: Where are you now?
• Options: What could you do?
• Will: What will you do?

OODA Loop: This acronym stands for observe, orient, decide, and act. This approach is a decision-making cycle that values agility and flexibility over raw human force. It is framed as a loop because of the understanding that any team will continually encounter problems or opponents to success and have to overcome them.

There are also many un-named creative problem solving techniques that follow a sequenced series of steps. While the exact steps vary slightly, they all follow a similar trajectory and aim to accomplish similar goals of problem, cause, and goal identification, idea generation, and active solution implementation.

MacLeod offers her own problem solving procedure, which echoes the above steps:

“1. Recognize the Problem: State what you see. Sometimes the problem is covert. 2. Identify: Get the facts — What exactly happened? What is the issue? 3. and 4. Explore and Connect: Dig deeper and encourage group members to relate their similar experiences. Now you're getting more into the feelings and background [of the situation], not just the facts.  5. Possible Solutions: Consider and brainstorm ideas for resolution. 6. Implement: Choose a solution and try it out — this could be role play and/or a discussion of how the solution would be put in place.  7. Evaluate: Revisit to see if the solution was successful or not.”

Many of these problem solving techniques can be used in concert with one another, or multiple can be appropriate for any given problem. It’s less about facilitating a perfect CPS session, and more about encouraging team members to continually think outside the box and push beyond personal boundaries that inhibit their innovative thinking. So, try out several methods, find those that resonate best with your team, and continue adopting new techniques and adapting your processes along the way. 

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5 Simple Steps to Effective Problem Solving

The ability to solve problems is a crucial skill in the modern workplace. It can make the difference between success and failure, and it can help you navigate the complexities of a fast-paced environment. But what exactly is effective problem solving? And how can you develop the skills needed to solve problems efficiently and effectively?

Effective problem solving involves several key steps that can help you identify the root cause of a problem, develop a plan of action, and implement that plan to achieve a successful outcome . Here are five simple steps you can take to develop your problem-solving skills and tackle any challenge that comes your way in the workplace.

Introduction

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you’re faced with a workplace problem, and you’re not sure where to start? Whether it’s a customer complaint, a team conflict, or a project delay, it’s essential to address it promptly to maintain productivity and morale. In this article, we’ll provide practical steps that can help you effectively solve problems at your workplace.

Step 1: Define the Problem

The first step in effective problem solving is to define the problem clearly. Take the time to analyze the issue and gather as much information as possible. It’s crucial to identify the cause of the problem and its impact on your team or organization. For example, if a team member is underperforming, it’s essential to understand the root cause of the issue and how it’s affecting the team’s productivity. Is it a lack of training, motivation, or resources? Are there external factors, such as personal issues or workload, that are affecting their performance?

Once you have a clear understanding of the problem, you can begin to develop a plan of action to address it. It’s important to involve all stakeholders in this process, including those who are directly affected by the problem, to ensure that you have a complete picture of the situation. Involving others in the process can also help you gain different perspectives and insights, which can be valuable in developing an effective solution.

Step 2: Brainstorm Possible Solutions

After identifying the problem, the next step is to brainstorm possible solutions. It’s important to be creative and come up with as many solutions as possible, even if they seem unrealistic or impractical. Brainstorming can be done individually or in a group setting, where team members can bounce ideas off each other. In a group setting, it’s important to create an open and safe environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas. Remember to focus on generating ideas, without evaluating or criticizing them during the brainstorming session.

Once you have a list of possible solutions, evaluate each one based on their feasibility, potential impact, and costs. It’s important to consider the pros and cons of each solution before selecting the most appropriate one. Keep in mind that the solution may not be perfect, but it should be the best one available given the resources and constraints. By considering different options, you can increase the chances of finding an effective solution that addresses the problem.

Step 3: Evaluate the Solutions

When evaluating the solutions, it’s important to keep an open mind and consider different perspectives. Seek feedback from other team members or colleagues who may have a different point of view. It’s also important to consider the long-term effects of each solution, rather than just the immediate impact. For instance, while changing the project scope may seem like a quick fix to a delayed project, it could cause further delays or even impact the project’s success in the long run.

During the evaluation process, it’s essential to prioritize solutions based on their impact on the problem and their feasibility. Consider the resources, time, and effort required to implement each solution. Some solutions may be quick fixes that can be implemented immediately, while others may require more planning and preparation. It’s important to choose a solution that addresses the problem effectively while also being feasible to implement within the given resources and timeframe.

It’s also important to remember that not all solutions may work as expected. Be prepared to modify or pivot to a different solution if the initial solution does not yield the desired results. Additionally, ensure that the chosen solution aligns with the company’s policies and values and does not violate any ethical standards.

Step 4: Implement the Solution

Implementing the chosen solution requires careful planning and execution. The team needs to work together to ensure that the solution is implemented smoothly and efficiently. The plan should include a timeline, specific tasks, and deadlines. Assigning roles and responsibilities to each team member is crucial to ensure that everyone understands their role in the implementation process.

Effective communication is also essential during the implementation phase. The team should communicate regularly to discuss progress, identify any obstacles, and adjust the plan if necessary. For example, if the team decides to implement a new customer service strategy, they should train the customer service team, provide them with the necessary tools, and communicate the new strategy to customers.

It’s also important to track the progress of the implementation to ensure that everything is on track. Regular check-ins can help identify any problems early on and provide an opportunity to address them before they become bigger issues.

Step 5: Monitor and Adjust

Monitoring and adjusting the solution is crucial in ensuring that the problem is fully resolved. It’s essential to track the progress of the solution and evaluate its effectiveness. If the solution is not working as planned, it’s important to adjust it accordingly. This step requires flexibility and open communication among team members.

For example, if the team decided to adjust the project timeline, they should monitor the progress regularly and make adjustments if necessary. They should also communicate any changes to the stakeholders involved in the project. If the new timeline is not working, the team should be open to making further adjustments, such as revising the project scope or adding more resources.

Feedback plays a vital role in this step. It’s important to gather feedback from team members and stakeholders to ensure that the solution is meeting their needs. Feedback can also help identify any potential issues that may arise and allow the team to address them promptly.

Learning from mistakes is also an important aspect of effective problem solving. Every problem presents an opportunity to learn and grow. By reflecting on the process and the outcome, team members can identify areas for improvement and apply them in future problem-solving situations.

So, there you have it – a five-step process to solve any workplace problem like a pro! Whether it’s a pesky customer complaint, a tricky team conflict, or a stubborn project delay, you can tackle it with ease.

Remember, the first step is to define the problem – analyze it, gather information, and understand the root cause. Next, brainstorm possible solutions, even if they seem unrealistic or impractical. Get creative and come up with as many solutions as possible!

After that, evaluate the solutions by identifying their pros and cons, and choose the one that’s most feasible and practical. Make sure to consider the potential risks and benefits of each solution. Then, it’s time to implement the most practical solution. Develop a plan, communicate it to everyone involved, and assign roles and responsibilities.

Last but not least, monitor the progress and adjust the solution if necessary. Keep track of the progress and be open to feedback. Remember, learning from your mistakes is the key to success!

So, the next time you face a workplace problem, take a deep breath and follow these simple steps. You’ll be able to find a solution that works for everyone and become a valuable asset to your team or organization. With effective problem solving skills, you can maintain productivity, boost morale, and achieve success!

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COME USARE IL PROBLEM-SOLVING A SCUOLA IN 7 FASI.

• COME USARE IL PROBLEM-SOLVING A…

problem-solving a scuola

L’essere competenti in fatto di problem-solving , permette ai soggetti di fronteggiare con maggiore efficacia lo stress e le frustrazioni e ha un impatto positivo anche sul rendimento scolastico, e secondo numerose ricerche, una correlazione con una minor probabilità di sviluppare comportamenti ansiogeni e devianti.

Inoltre l’uso sistematico di strategie di problem-solving, può costituire di per sé una fonte di orgoglio e di autostima .

Zurilla e Golfrield hanno sviluppato un modello graduale per insegnare il problem-solving. Il processo è scomposto in sette fasi .

Le 7 Fasi del problem-solving:

1 . Riconoscere che il problema esiste . Ciò significa essere consapevoli delle proprie emozioni dato che, spesso costituiscono il primo indizio che un problema esiste e deve essere risolto. Occorre fermarsi a pensare prima di agire in modo avventato.

2 . Individuare in cosa consiste il problema e cercare le cause.

3. Stabilire degli obiettivi rispetto ai risultati attesi .

4. Formulare soluzioni potenziali in base alle risorse .

5. Valutare per ciascuna soluzione, quali possono essere le conseguenze logiche.

6. Scegliere la soluzione migliore .

7. Strutturare ed attuare un piano.

Il problem-solving comprende quindi una componente emotiva , in quanto l’emozione rivela la presenza di un problema, una cognitiva indispensabile per identificare il problema, e una comportamentale, volta a portare a termine il programma. Dal punto di vista didattico, utilizzare il problem-solvig, significa orientare l’apprendimento verso la soluzione di un problema.

Significa abbandonare la solita lezione cattedratica, per proporre invece un problema che crea immediatamente una dissonanza cognitiva ( tra ciò che si sa e ciò che ancora non si conosce ). Per colmare l’interrogativo lo studente è spinto ad elaborare ipotesi e a verificarle in modo accurato.

La didattica del problem-solving è stimolante, ma anche esigente; suscita interesse e coinvolgimento, ma richiede una grande concentrazione e rielaborazione.

Gli studenti apprendono con entusiasmo le informazioni presentate sotto forma di problemi , perché percepiscono la potenza della propria mente nello scovare gli errori, nel generare ipotesi e nel trovare soluzioni a situazioni complesse. Soprattutto con gli studenti con problemi motivazionali queste strategie si rivelano vincenti .  problem-solving a scuola

Quando il coinvolgimento, l’interesse, la disponibilità ad apprendere sono solidi e stabili, è possibile allontanarsi dagli esempi pratici e dedicarsi a situazioni più astratte e simboliche.

La concretezza è il trampolino di lancio . Le situazioni problematiche, chiaramente non funzionano se sono presentate come quiz, come passatempo o divertimento. Gli studenti devono sapere cosa stanno facendo e quali concetti o abilità impareranno ad usare .

Esempi per familiarizzare con la strategia del problem-solving potrebbero essere:

– Leggere un testo come il Barone rampante di Italo Calvino , sospendendo a tratti la narrazione in concomitanza dei problemi che il protagonista deve affrontare. A questo punto ci si chiede “ come farà? “.

In questo modo si pone agli allievi un problema da risolvere e poi si potranno confrontare le risposte date da ognuno ( o dai piccoli gruppi ) con quelle contenute nella narrazione.

In questo modo un libro diventa uno strumento per pensare, un’occasione per confrontare ipotesi e generare soluzioni alternative.  problem-solving a scuola

Altre formulazioni potrebbero essere:

– Perché i colori del semaforo sono rosso, giallo, verde?

– Come si fa a misurare l’altezza delle Piramidi d’Egitto?

– Come fa un aquilone a restare in aria?

– Perché nello specchio la mano destra appare a sinistra?

– Perché l’immagine viene deformata quando si ha uno specchio concavo o convesso?

– Qual è il principio dei sommergibili?

– In che modo possono immergersi sotto la superficie dell’acqua?

– Come fanno a riemergere?

Queste domande inserite in un percorso che valorizza la ricerca, risvegliano il desiderio di conoscenza, attivano l’interesse e stimolano la partecipazione.

Possono essere poste come pause divertenti oppure li si può utilizzare come unità didattiche da svolgere accuratamente per spremere da esse tutto il succo formativo e teorico che possiedono.

Ovviamente, i problemi dovranno essere modificati e pensati a seconda delle diverse età, perché siano adeguati alle risorse cognitive dei singoli.

RISORSE CONSIGLIATE PER TE : LE PRINCIPALI STRATEGIE DIDATTICHE INCLUSIVE .  

Se hai voglia di confrontarti con me contattami pure sulla mia pagina Facebook:  DIDATTICA PERSUASIVA .  

Buon lavoro. 

Autore:  Leonardo Povia

Pedagogista, Psicologo clinico della riabilitazione, Insegnante di ruolo specializzato nel sostegno didattico, Formatore, Padre di Marco e Marilù, Autore, Blogger.

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Mi piacerebbe ricevere i vostri articoli, grazie

Ciao Matilde a Gennaio nuovi articoli! 🙂

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• US Votes 2024

For Democrats, replacing Biden will solve one problem but create another

Bruce wolpe, save articles for later.

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If US President Joe Biden had executed on his strategy for the debate with his Republican challenger, Donald Trump, we would not be here right now.

Biden wanted an early debate to change the trajectory of the campaign that had him lagging, effectively tied head-to-head for the national vote, but trailing in most of the battleground swing states that will decide the election.

He got his preferred debate format and rules. Everyone – even many in the Trump camp – was expecting to see the Prosecutor-In-Chief take Trump down as an extremist and disgraced convicted felon who would eviscerate America’s democracy.

Instead, it was Biden whose flailings, freezing and mutterings allowed Trump to execute on his strategy for the debate: to show that Biden was no longer fit for duty and must be removed from office. Seared into the public’s lens on this election is a view that while both candidates are too old, it is Biden who wears that burden more heavily.

The post-debate polls show Biden with a record low approval today of 36 per cent. No president seeking re-election has won from there. Biden’s television interview last week was primed to recover steadiness, authority and command. He failed. Biden is resolute that he will continue the campaign – that he will not stand aside unless “the Lord Almighty” counsels him otherwise.

But there was one moment when Biden’s words opened the trap door on the platform on which he is standing. George Stephanopoulos of ABC America asked: “And if you stay in and Trump is elected and everything you’re warning about comes to pass, how will you feel in January?” Biden replied: “I’ll feel as long as I gave it my all and I did the good as job as I know I can do, that’s what this is about.”

No, Mr President, sorry. This is about defeating Trump – and not about whether you did your best and lost. Representative Adam Schiff, who was the lead House manager of the impeachment of Trump for the January 6, 2021 insurrection, and who is favoured in his race for the US Senate in California, said in response to Biden: “That is the answer that most concerned me as well. This is not just about whether he gave it the best college try, but rather whether he made the right decision to run or to pass the torch.”

The transaction costs of Biden refusing to pass the torch are enormous. If Biden stays in the race, we will not know the answer to Stephanopoulos’ question until the day after the election. The fear driving Democratic members of the House and Senate to conclude that Biden must stand aside is the fear that Biden’s staying in the race will directly affect the control of Congress.

Democrats are within five seats of taking control of the House from Republicans. Until the debate, those prospects looked very strong. After the debate, what is clear is that Biden at the top of the ticket could cost several gains in House seats. A Democratic House can stop Trump’s budget, kill his legislative initiatives and call his cabinet officials to account. If Biden stays in, will this guardrail on Trump be saved?

This is why several senior House members have asked Biden to stand aside. Democrats have the same fear regarding the Senate. There will be at least 50 Republican senators after the election. Even if all the other Democrats win all their races in all the contested seats, and Biden loses, Trump will control the Senate through his vice president. A Republican House and Senate mean nothing less than Trump tyranny in Congress.

Replacing Biden with another nominee also has huge transaction costs. For example, if his successor is someone other than Vice President Kamala Harris, he or she will not have immediate access to the $US240 million ($356 million) cash-in-hand Biden campaign funds. Money will have to be raised from scratch.

If Biden steps aside, Harris would probably declare and start seeking the party’s support. She is not especially popular today, but over the past year she has made an exceptional mark on abortion rights, gun control and on the world stage representing the US. Her star is rising.

If the party chooses someone else, the rejection of Harris – as the first black woman vice president – would jeopardise those two constituencies who help form the bedrock of the Democratic vote. Harris’ defeat in seeking the presidential nomination would be likely to depress enthusiasm and turnout in November, costing Democrats the election.

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris together on July 4. Harris has been dismissed as unpopular, but her star is rising. Credit: Bloomberg

The stark contrast of the Democrats’ implosion cannot continue to go on as the Republicans meet next week to crown Trump and his new vice presidential pick. Biden is the ultimate decider on whether to stay on or to step aside and unite the party. If this political crisis is to reach a peak later this week, the telltale sign will be a meeting in the Oval Office between Biden and the most senior Democrats – the House and Senate leaders – at which they would ask Biden that he step aside.

As pressure continues to build on Biden, a media and political blitz is now on to head off such a reckoning. Biden has written to Democrats in Congress. “I am firmly committed to staying in this race, to running this race to the end, and to beating Donald Trump.” If Biden prevails and stays, the transaction cost of another public speaking episode will be catastrophic come November.

Bruce Wolpe is a senior fellow at the University of Sydney’s United States Studies Centre. He has served on the Democratic staff in the US Congress and as chief of staff to former prime minister Julia Gillard.

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Ieee spectrum, follow ieee spectrum, support ieee spectrum, enjoy more free content and benefits by creating an account, saving articles to read later requires an ieee spectrum account, the institute content is only available for members, downloading full pdf issues is exclusive for ieee members, downloading this e-book is exclusive for ieee members, access to spectrum 's digital edition is exclusive for ieee members, following topics is a feature exclusive for ieee members, adding your response to an article requires an ieee spectrum account, create an account to access more content and features on ieee spectrum , including the ability to save articles to read later, download spectrum collections, and participate in conversations with readers and editors. for more exclusive content and features, consider joining ieee ., join the world’s largest professional organization devoted to engineering and applied sciences and get access to all of spectrum’s articles, archives, pdf downloads, and other benefits. learn more about ieee →, join the world’s largest professional organization devoted to engineering and applied sciences and get access to this e-book plus all of ieee spectrum’s articles, archives, pdf downloads, and other benefits. learn more about ieee →, access thousands of articles — completely free, create an account and get exclusive content and features: save articles, download collections, and talk to tech insiders — all free for full access and benefits, join ieee as a paying member., how good is chatgpt at coding, really, study finds that while ai can be great, it also struggles due to training limitations.

This article is part of our exclusive IEEE Journal Watch series in partnership with IEEE Xplore.

Programmers have spent decades writing code for AI models , and now, in a full circle moment, AI is being used to write code. But how does an AI code generator compare to a human programmer?

A study published in the June issue of IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering evaluated the code produced by OpenAI’s ChatGPT in terms of functionality, complexity and security. The results show that ChatGPT has an extremely broad range of success when it comes to producing functional code—with a success rate ranging from anywhere as poor as 0.66 percent and as good as 89 percent—depending on the difficulty of the task, the programming language, and a number of other factors.

While in some cases the AI generator could produce better code than humans, the analysis also reveals some security concerns with AI-generated code.

Yutian Tang is a lecturer at the University of Glasgow who was involved in the study. He notes that AI-based code generation could provide some advantages in terms of enhancing productivity and automating software development tasks—but it’s important to understand the strengths and limitations of these models.

“By conducting a comprehensive analysis, we can uncover potential issues and limitations that arise in the ChatGPT-based code generation... [and] improve generation techniques,” Tang explains.

To explore these limitations in more detail, his team sought to test GPT-3.5’s ability to address 728 coding problems from the LeetCode testing platform in five programming languages: C, C++, Java, JavaScript, and Python .

“A reasonable hypothesis for why ChatGPT can do better with algorithm problems before 2021 is that these problems are frequently seen in the training dataset.” —Yutian Tang, University of Glasgow

Overall, ChatGPT was fairly good at solving problems in the different coding languages—but especially when attempting to solve coding problems that existed on LeetCode before 2021. For instance, it was able to produce functional code for easy, medium, and hard problems with success rates of about 89, 71, and 40 percent, respectively.

“However, when it comes to the algorithm problems after 2021, ChatGPT’s ability to generate functionally correct code is affected. It sometimes fails to understand the meaning of questions, even for easy level problems,” Tang notes.

For example, ChatGPT’s ability to produce functional code for “easy” coding problems dropped from 89 percent to 52 percent after 2021. And its ability to generate functional code for “hard” problems dropped from 40 percent to 0.66 percent after this time as well.

“A reasonable hypothesis for why ChatGPT can do better with algorithm problems before 2021 is that these problems are frequently seen in the training dataset,” Tang says.

Essentially, as coding evolves, ChatGPT has not been exposed yet to new problems and solutions. It lacks the critical thinking skills of a human and can only address problems it has previously encountered. This could explain why it is so much better at addressing older coding problems than newer ones.

“ChatGPT may generate incorrect code because it does not understand the meaning of algorithm problems.” —Yutian Tang, University of Glasgow

Interestingly, ChatGPT is able to generate code with smaller runtime and memory overheads than at least 50 percent of human solutions to the same LeetCode problems.

The researchers also explored the ability of ChatGPT to fix its own coding errors after receiving feedback from LeetCode. They randomly selected 50 coding scenarios where ChatGPT initially generated incorrect coding, either because it didn’t understand the content or problem at hand.

While ChatGPT was good at fixing compiling errors, it generally was not good at correcting its own mistakes.

“ChatGPT may generate incorrect code because it does not understand the meaning of algorithm problems, thus, this simple error feedback information is not enough,” Tang explains.

The researchers also found that ChatGPT-generated code did have a fair amount of vulnerabilities, such as a missing null test, but many of these were easily fixable. Their results also show that generated code in C was the most complex, followed by C++ and Python, which has a similar complexity to the human-written code.

Tangs says, based on these results, it’s important that developers using ChatGPT provide additional information to help ChatGPT better understand problems or avoid vulnerabilities.

“For example, when encountering more complex programming problems, developers can provide relevant knowledge as much as possible, and tell ChatGPT in the prompt which potential vulnerabilities to be aware of,” Tang says.

• What to Do When the Ghost in the Machine Is You ›
• How Coders Can Survive—and Thrive—in a ChatGPT World ›
• Coding Assistant - ChatGPT ›

Michelle Hampson is a freelance writer based in Halifax. She frequently contributes to Spectrum's Journal Watch coverage, which highlights newsworthy studies published in IEEE journals.

"struggles due to training limitations" isn't that EVERYONE's problem with EVERYTHING.

"I could be an awesome guitar playing, but I struggle due to training limitations."

"I could be a great Opera singer, but I struggle due to training limitations."

"I could be a great jockey, but I am 6'4"...." Ok, well maybe not everything.

ChatGPT sucks at coding because it's not an AI - it's a big ass word predictor.

I actually think the key here is writing good test suits to ensure AI does the right thing...

Here is the full argument: https://medium.com/@samuel.sperling/software-2-1-ai-is-coding-now-why-test-mastery-is-your-new-job-security-31a65e792f7f

Not very interesting study given it seems to only be based on ChatGPT 3.5 which is very old technology today

Windows on Arm Is Here to Stay

New fiber optics tech smashes data rate record, superconductor offers possible room-temperature bridge, related stories, what to do when the ghost in the machine is you, chatgpt’s new upgrade teases ai’s multimodal future, chatgpt may be a better improviser than you.

Rivian just got a $5 billion investment from Volkswagen, and it could help Rivian solve one of its biggest problems

• Volkswagen will invest up to $5 billion in Rivian, an EV maker that's struggled with profitability.
• Rivian, which lost $1.4 billion in the first quarter, aims to develop a more affordable SUV. 
• Rivian's new $45,000 SUV, the R2, set to launch in 2026, targets mainstream customers.

Volkswagen just inked a deal to invest up to $5 billion in Rivian, the electric-vehicle maker that has, like its peers, struggled to turn a profit.

The deal, announced Tuesday, creates a joint venture focused on developing software to be used in both companies' cars. It also affords Rivian, which lost $1.4 billion in the first quarter, a financial cushion to continue developing a much cheaper SUV.

The partnership is expected to "lower cost per vehicle by increasing scale and speeding up innovation globally," the joint announcement said.

Software is one of Rivian's strengths, Goldman Sachs analysts noted in January — "a key part of the value proposition and monetization opportunity for Rivian."

But the company has struggled to sell more cars profitably. It's still just a small slice of the overall EV market. Rivian delivered nearly 14,000 cars in the first quarter, compared with Tesla's almost 390,000.

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The race to create cheaper EVs is heating up across the industry, as car makers confront an affordability problem that has narrowed the potential buyer pool.

Rivian's current SUV costs nearly $80,000. In March, the company introduced two smaller SUVs designed to reach more mainstream customers.

"These represent our future," CEO RJ Scaringe said of the new models.

One of the models, called the R2, is slated to launch in 2026 and will cost $45,000, about the same as Tesla's Model Y.

The R2 "will be foundational to Rivian's long-term growth and profit potential," the company said in its first-quarter earnings report.

Tesla has been teasing a $25,000 electric vehicle for years. Last year, Tesla's top engineers told investors that the company's next generation of electric models would cost 50% less to make . But the production road has been bumpy — last month, Tesla pulled back on plans to roll out a new manufacturing method for its electric cars, Reuters reported.

In April, Ford CEO Jim Farley said the company is working on new affordable EVs that could be priced as low as $25,000 to $30,000.

The Volkswagen news sent Rivian shares up 50% in after-hours trading.

Watch: What it's like to own a $20 million exotic car collection

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