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SIX STEPS TO PROBLEM SOLVING By MICHELLE MAZIOFA
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STEP1: Identify and select the Problem
• The objective of this step is to identify the problem. Everyone has to step back from the issue and use the STAR METHOD which means one has to STOP, THINK, ACT and REVIEW. The individual or group should identify what is causing the problem or difficulty and when identified everyone has to be in agreement this should be done in such a way that everyone can live with the agreement.
Discussions understanding and an open mind are elements that will help with the process. This process also help very much in separating out things that are irrelevant and focussing on those relevant issues. Once the problem is identified goals should be set this will help to see to the gap between the problem and the goal.
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STEP2: Analyze the problem
• You have to decide what type of problem it is, whether there's a clear barrier or circumstance you need to overcome.
• Then dig to the root causes of the problem, and keep in mind the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
• One has to ask WHY?? A number of times to dig through each symptom and arrive at the problems root cause. Analysing means to gather information.
• Once the information is gathered one has to take a close look at what's going on.
• Try to come to consensus on why the particular problem or issue occurs.
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STEP3: Generate potential solutions
• Now that the problem has been analysed, the group can begin to develop possible solutions.
• Every possible solution or variation is identified. The individual or group should brainstorm many solutions.
• There should not be any judgements should not be passed on any suggestions.
• All ideas or solutions should be clarified so there's more understanding for a later selection.
• Questions like who, what, where, when, and how of the causes to point to various possibilities. You should not limit yourself by considering practicalities at this stage, simply record your ideas.
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STEP4: Select and plan the solutions
• Now that there are a wide variety of possible solutions, this would be the time to select the best solution to fix the problem.
• You can evaluate your ideas, more options could present themselves.
• You could do this by rating each possible solution brought up in step 3 according to the criteria such as how effective it will be, how much time or effect it will take, its cost, and how likely to satisfy YOU.
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STEP5: Implement the solution
• You need to ensure the required resources remain available and monitor progress in solving the problem.
• Gather data on the solution
• Analyze the data on the solution
• Archive the desired results?
• If YES, go to step 6
• If NO, go back to step 1
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STEPS6: Evaluate the solution
• Did the solution work? If not –why not……
• Question such as what went wrong and what went right? Should be asked.
• Identify systematic changes and training needs for full implementation.
• Adopt the solution.
• Plan ongoing monitoring of the solution.
• Continue to look for incremental improvements to refine the solution.
• Look for another improvement opportunity.
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WHAT DO WE DO NEXT?....
• You will never ask this question ever again because the Six Problem-Solving Process is an easy approach to dealing with issues and problems that you face.
• It is a systematic way to approach a problem with clearly defined steps so that an individual or team doesn’t get bogged down in “WHAT DO WE DO NEXT?”
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