Effective Steps Involved in Problem Solving

The process of finding a solution to the problem by breaking down the problem is called problem-solving. The specific process that is followed is called method of problem solving. A method is required for problem solving since it allows us to effective breakdown the steps involved in problem-solving and aids us in devising a plan of action.

Types of Problem-Solving Methods

Let us look into three types of methods that can be employed in order to solve problems:

1) Trial and Error

This method involves coming up with a multitude of possible solutions for the given problem and applying them one by one to see which one fits the best. This method can be followed when there is limited information available about the problem.

2) Means-End analysis

This method involves establishing the starting point which is the current state with the problem and end point where the solution is applied. A sub-goal is then created to bridge the gap between the difference. The action plan is laid out to systematically get closer to the end point.

3) Difference Reduction

The problem is divided into several parts and a solution is found for each of these components. Then the multiple solutions are combined to form the parent solution that tackles the initially presented problem.

Effective Use of Problem-Solving Methods

For the effective use of problem-solving methods, use the following tips:

1) Team effort

Encourage participants to figure out a way of solving the problem in teams. When problems are tackled by multiple people, there are many perspectives that can lead to different approaches of solving the problem.

2) Focus on understanding the problem

The probability of occurrence of an error is higher when there is less time allotted to comprehending the problem. In a faced-paced business environment, when a problem is presented to multiple people or teams, this is a common type pf error that can occur because everyone is in a race to find the solution first, when the focus should be on finding the best solution after understanding the problem accurately.

3) Find correlation between misconceptions and errors

This ties in to the previous point, wherein if there is an error in the solution, it is most likely related to a misconception that was made during the problem-solving process.

4) Keep the context in mind

The context of the problem is an important factor in accurately comprehending the problem. If there is any ambiguity relating to the context, it should be addressed during the initial stages of any problem-solving method.

5) Allot enough time

Any problem-solving method should give a framework of division of time that is required for each step in the process. The problem-solving method would not be successful if the individuals allot less time for a step like understanding the problem.

Conclusion

The type of method that is chosen must match the type of problem that is presented. For instance, a problem that cannot be broken into distinct components, cannot be solved using the difference reduction method. The nature of the problem and the supporting hints can aid in establishing the right method of problem-solving to find the best fitting solution.