What do you call the process of identifying a problem developing possible solution paths and taking the appropriate course of action?
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Updated August 4, 2022 | Published December 12, 2019 Updated August 4, 2022 Published December 12, 2019 The Indeed Editorial Team comprises a diverse and talented team of writers, researchers and subject matter experts equipped with Indeed's data and insights to deliver useful tips to help guide your career journey. Problem-solving is a part of everyone’s work, whether you’re a manager or entry-level employee. A project manager may solve problems for their clients and team members, while individual contributors may solve problems for themselves or their coworkers. Hence, it is important for every employee to understand the problem-solving process and develop problem-solving skills. In this article, we offer ways to increase your problem-solving skills and opportunities for career advancement. What is problem-solving?Problem-solving is the process of understanding a challenge and working toward finding an effective solution to it. Depending upon the type and complexity of the problem, it may involve the use of mathematical operations and may test your critical-thinking skills. When prospective employers are talking about problem-solving, they are usually trying to gauge your ability and skills to deal with difficult situations and complicated business problems. Almost all employers value problem-solving skills and seek to have employees with these traits in order to aid the decision-making process in the day-to-day functioning of the company. Read more: Problem-Solving Skills: Definitions and Examples Problem-solving stepsHere are the basic steps involved in problem-solving: 1. Define the problemAnalyze the situation carefully to learn more about the problem. A single situation may involve multiple problems. Identify each problem and determine the cause. Try to anticipate the behavior and response of people affected by the problem. Then, based upon your preliminary observation, take the following steps to pinpoint the problem more accurately:
While defining a problem, make sure you stay focused on the problem rather than trying to define it in terms of a solution at this stage. For example, “We need to rewrite the training documents” focuses on the solution rather than the problem. Instead, saying, “Training documents are inconsistent” is a better way to define a problem. Depending upon the complexity of the problem, you may want to use tools, like flowcharts and cause-and-effect diagrams, to define the problem and its root causes. 2. Identify alternative solutions.Brainstorm all possible ways to solve the existing problem. Invite suggestions from everyone affected by the problem and consult those who may have more experience with the type of challenge you’re experiencing. You can also use surveys and discussion groups to generate ideas. Keep the following points in mind while exploring alternatives:
Write down all the proposed solutions. You should have at least five to eight of them for each problem. 3. Evaluate solutions.Once you have a list of alternatives, it is time to evaluate them. Assess the positive and negative consequences of each alternative defined in the previous step. Analyze and compare all the alternatives in terms of the resources required for their implementation, including time, data, personnel and budget. 4. Select a solution.After the evaluation process is over, select a solution most likely to solve the problem. Consider to what extent a solution meets the following objectives:
It is important to consider the implementation part while choosing a solution. Decide the following:
5. Implement the chosen solution.The next step involves implementing the chosen solution, which usually requires you to take the following actions:
6. Monitor progress and make adjustments.Make sure to continuously measure progress to ensure your solution works. Gather data and feedback from others to determine if the solution meets their needs. You may need to make adjustments to the process if anything unexpected arises. If you feel the solution doesn’t work as planned, you may need to return to your alternative solutions and implement a new plan. What are the important problem-solving skills employers look for?Many employers seek candidates with excellent problem-solving skills. Here are some of the most important problem-solving skills:
Related: Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills Highlighting problem-solving skills on your resumeShowcasing your problem-solving skills on your resume can help you stand out from other candidates. You can mention your problem-solving skills under either the skills or achievements section of your resume. Instead of simply writing that you possess problem-solving skills, try to illustrate how you have used these skills to solve specific problems in your previous positions. Consider the following examples:
Try to tailor your resume so your problem-solving skills match the job which you are applying for. Creating a tailored resume can help you gain and maintain the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager as they review your resume. What is the process of identifying and solving a problem?Six step guide to help you solve problems. Step 1: Identify and define the problem. State the problem as clearly as possible. ... . Step 2: Generate possible solutions. ... . Step 3: Evaluate alternatives. ... . Step 4: Decide on a solution. ... . Step 5: Implement the solution. ... . Step 6: Evaluate the outcome.. What is a step by step solution to a problem called?A step-by-step procedure used to solve a problem is called Algorithm. An algorithm (pronounced AL-go-rith-um) is a procedure or formula for solving a problem, based on conductiong a sequence of specified actions.
Which method is also known as problem solving method?Means-end analysis is another technique that is commonly used to problem solve.
What processes are involved in problem solving?8-Step Problem Solving Process. Step 1: Define the Problem. What is the problem? ... . Step 2: Clarify the Problem. ... . Step 3: Define the Goals. ... . Step 4: Identify Root Cause of the Problem. ... . Step 5: Develop Action Plan. ... . Step 6: Execute Action Plan. ... . Step 7: Evaluate the Results. ... . Step 8: Continuously Improve.. |