PROBLEM SOLVING – Rolling On – A Handful of Tips 54

PROBLEM Solving –

Problems tend to get bigger if they are not dealt with promptly.

        The best way to stop worrying about a problem is to solve it fast.

        Examine all aspects of a problem in an effort to find a rapid solution.

        Don’t make a snap decision about the cause of the problem until you have looked at all the symptoms.

        Problems tend to multiply when you take your eye off your goals.

A handful of tips to help you solve your next problem

* What is the problem?

       Define the problem clearly try to get all the facts . Look for weaknesses in systems.

        Make sure people fully understand and agree on the nature of the problem.

* List possible causes

        Discuss the possible causes in detail.  Encourage lateral thinking.

        The obvious cause is not necessarily the real cause of the problem. Often it is due to personality conflicts.

* List of ideas for possible solutions

        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 – often they see things through different eyes.

        Define the problem in short and precise words.

* Choose the best recommendation

        Discard all impractical solutions.

        Discuss all the practical recommendations and their implications.

        Decide on the best solution.

* Decide how it will be implemented

        Plan the action to be taken and decide how it will be implemented.

        People often work better under pressure.

        Get it solved as quickly as possible.

        If you tackle the hard problems first often the easy ones go away.

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

Geoffrey Moss(mossassociates.co.nz)

“Problems can be opportunities when you bring the right teams together.”

For those in need download our FREE book “NO JOB! WHAT NOW”, Available from our website.

Source: “Training Secrets” published by Moss Associates Ltd, New Zealand and Cengage Learning Asia.

            Available as “Training Ways – Helping Adults Learn” from Moss Associates and as “The Trainer’s Reference” from Kogan Page . U.K. and as “The Trainer’s Quick Reference” Business One, USA.Desk

Also available as an eBook from Amazon.com.

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