Problem Solving in 7 Steps

581 Words3 Pages
Problem Solving in 7 Steps If someone were to ask you how you go about solving a problem or making a difficult decision, how would you reply? Would you say that you go about the task by the seat of your pants? Or would you stop, think about it for a good while, and simply say that you didn't exactly know? In order to achieve success in your organization, the ability to solve problems in an organized, structured, and timely manner is absolutely crucial, regardless of your rank within the company. The seven steps to structured problem solving are outlined below: 1. Identify and clearly define the problem This is of course your first step. After all, a decision only exists because of a problem. The first thing that must be done is to clearly identify what the problem is; what is it doing (or not doing) for your business; who is affected by it; and what the desired state should be. 2. Establish your objectives and priorities Rarely is there a time when you've got only one problem to deal with. Once you've determined what the new problem is, the next step is to prioritize it in relation to the other ones currently on your plate. Determining this priority involves three considerations: urgency, current overall impact, and future impacts on your business. 3. Consider possible causes It is important to look for the root cause(s) of your current problem. Doing so will undoubtedly help you determine what the underlying problem really is. 4. Develop alternative solutions Before deciding on a solution, draw up a list of feasible alternatives that will meet your needs. Perform this step within your time and budgetary constraints. 5. Evaluate the alternatives and communicate them with the stakeholders Now that you've determined your set of alternatives, you will need to evaluate the pros and cons of each one on the basis of the following three
Open Document