Rolling On – A Handful of Tips 9 – Problem Solving 

The best way to stop worrying about a problem is to solve it fast. Problems tend to get bigger if they are not dealt with promptly.

Examine all aspects of a problem fast in an effort to find a rapid solution. Problems multiply when you take your eye off your goals.

Those who tackle the harder problems first find that many of the easier ones are likely to go away.    

The five best tips to solve a problem

1. What is the real problem?

Define the problem clearly. Most people rush to find solutions before they know what the real problem is. 

Make sure people fully understand and agree on the nature of the problem. Very often problems are caused by a clash of people.

2. List possible causes

Discuss the possible causes in detail. Encourage lateral thinking. Make a list of possible causes first. The obvious cause is not necessarily the real cause of the problem. Often it is due to personality conflicts or misunderstandings.  

3. Generate a list of possible solutions

First, establish criteria for what will be an acceptable solution. Next, generate a list of possible solutions by using a ‘brain storming’ type session.

When looking for a solution involve people who know about the situation and include some who do not. Very often they see things through different eyes and can often suggest an unexpected solution to a problem.

Discard all impractical solutions.

4. Choose the best recommendation

Discuss all the practical recommendations and their implications.

Decide on the best solution.

5. Plan the action to be taken

People often work better under pressure. Get it solved as quickly as possible. If you tackle the hard problems first usually the easy ones go away.

Appoint competent, experienced people to make any changes needed. If they have been involved in solving the problem they will be more supportive of the changes needed.

Problems can become opportunities when you bring the right teams together.

-Geoffrey Moss

“Never take your boss a problem unless you can suggest a possible solution.”

Source: “Training Secrets” published by Moss Associates Ltd, New Zealand and Cengage Learning Asia. Also available as an eBook from Amazon.com.