Mind set of problem solving forwarder

by Amâncio de Moraes @August 8th, 2012
Desiring to be a “pilot” for problem solving forwarder, begin with the mind set that every and any problem has a solution, furthermore always after the problem solving process, anyone get the opportunity to increase their professional maturity.

Thus, the main pillar is change oneself with this proposal.

Following, one needs to improve its own competence in tools that will increase the capability in pursuit of best effectiveness in this process.

Nowadays, there are lots of quality tools and/or methodology freely available that can provide increased competence to everyone interested, such as:

• Abstraction: solving the problem in a model of the system before applying it to the real system
• Analogy: using a solution that solves an analogous problem
• Brainstorming: (especially among groups of people) suggesting a large number of solutions or ideas and combining and developing them until an optimum is found
• Divide and conquer: breaking down a large, complex problem into smaller, solvable problems
• Hypothesis testing: assuming a possible explanation to the problem and trying to prove (or, in some contexts, disprove) the assumption
• Lateral thinking: approaching solutions indirectly and creatively
• Means-ends analysis: choosing an action at each step to move closer to the goal
• Method of focal objects: synthesizing seemingly non-matching characteristics of different objects into something new
• Morphological analysis: assessing the output and interactions of an entire system
• Proof: try to prove that the problem cannot be solved. The point where the proof fails will be the starting point for solving it
• Reduction: transforming the problem into another problem for which solutions exist
• Research: employing existing ideas or adapting existing solutions to similar problems
• Root cause analysis: eliminating the cause of the problem
• Trial-and-error: testing possible solutions until the right one is found

Problem-solving methodologies

• Eight Disciplines Problem Solving
• GROW model
• How to solve it
• Kepner-Tregoe Problem Solving and Decision Making
• PDCA (plan–do–check–act)
• Productive Thinking Model
• RPR Problem Diagnosis (rapid problem resolution)
• TRIZ (in russian: Teoriya Resheniya Izobretatelskikh Zadatch, "theory of solving inventor's problems")

Then, what one must assume is the mind set necessary to accept that everything starts with the assurance which being transparent is an opportunity for learning more and as consequence achieve professional growth, while concealing a problem, will drive you and your team to a undesirable situation usually leading to worse consequences.

Think about it!