2015/05/07
1 Problem-Solving Process
G14m1445 Tutor: Richard Slater Prac day: Tuesday(05/05/2015
Introduction
Key: Gives an overview of what is to follow/what to expect in the presentation.
First, we will look at the Six-Step Problem-Solving Process.
Then, each step will be examined Individually.
Two vital tools that are used for better decision making will be given.
g14m1445
Six-Step Problem-Solving Process
6. Implement the Solution
g14m1445
Step 1: Identify and Select the Problem
Key: All about fixing the gap between the problem and the goal.
Ask yourself, “ What is really causing the problem?”
Use The Star method(as well as PDSA) as your first method – to make better decisions.
Thoroughly think and agree for everyone to be on the same page.
Thus, 3 elements of consensus may be used;
1. I agree.
2. I don’t fully agree, but I can live with and support the agreement.
3. I don’t agree, and I cannot live with and support the agreement.
Write down, in clear & concise statement, the identified problem
Finally, write the goal statement to see the gap between the problem & the goal
The Star Method
T h i n k S
t o p
The Star Method
PDSA Method Plan
Do
Study Act
g14m1445
Step 2: Analyse the Problem
Key: Focus everyone’s effort on analysing the problem for the real cause so that plans may be made to fix the problem.
The group/individual analyse by…
Gathering relevant/problematic information.
Staying and concise when collecting the information, and
Coming to consensus on why the particular problem occur.
Note; Dissociating your emotions with the problem helps one avoid the effects of a problem
g14m1445
Step 3: Generate Potential Solutions
Key: Creative, as well practical, step where every possible solution or variation is identified
That is,
Brainstorming process is used to generate as many solutions as possible.
There are no right and wrong answers.
Judgements shouldn’t be passed on another person’s suggestions.
Clarification time is allowed at the end, for clarification of everyone’s suggestions so there’s a common understanding for a later selection.
g14m1445
2015/05/07
2
Step 4: Select and Plan the Solution
Key: Time for best-solution selection to fix the problem, given the circumstances, reasons & other considerations.
The number one priority question, “What would work best?”, thus…
Many solutions are discussed with elimination with less important ones, until that last one or two is left – The Best.
Then the point of everyone’s consensus based on the best solution.
For a clear PLAN of action to track the solution, gather information on how it is working, and make necessary adjustments; A PDSA Method should be used.
Note that a solution may be effected by; money, time, people, procedures, policies, rules, etc.
g14m1445
Step 5: Implement the Solution
Key: This the stage of putting PDSA method into action – The DO stage.
It requires a scientific approach to observe specifically what is going with the solution
That is, a solution is tested in the name of consensus as well as respect.
g14m1445
Step 6: Evaluate the Solution
Key: PDSA Method is STUDIED…
Thus, the following questions in relation to the DO stage are studied;
Did the solution work? If not, why not?
What went right? And, What went wrong?
What adjustments does the group have to make the solution work better?
Note…
Careful analysis is made to improve the best solution using the information gathered when doing the DO stage.
Therefore, the group ACTS upon its findings. And,
Finally, the problem is solved or better under control g14m1445
Conclusion
The Six-Step Problem-Solving Process is almost a cookbook approach to dealing with issues and problems. It can help an individual, family, or community to make better decisions and improve important areas of their lives.
This process works and businesses and many people use some of it everyday.
It enables one to able to take a hard, analytical look at issue and problems.
It is a valuable tool to solve difficult and complex issues.
g14m1445
