Elements of Problem Solving

Problem Solving or Root Cause determination requires the analysis of several key components in order to effectively solve the problem. Here are 3 elements of the key components:

1. An Accurate Determination of the Problem
“A problem well stated is a problem half solved” Charles Kettering (American engineer, inventor of the electric starter, 1876-1958). The criticality of clearly identifying the problem statement is that it helps you (and your team members) to maintain razor-like focus on the issue at hand. There is a tendency to wander outside of the scope of the problem you are investigating once team members become involved. Therefore, it is important that all team members work diligently on clearly identifying the problem at hand and work as a cohesive unit to determine the root cause.

2. Selecting the Appropriate Problem Solving Tool
There is a multitude of problem solving tools/methodologies out there for analyzing a problem. Often, team members are not well-versed in the different tools and when it is appropriate to use them. As a result, they will use a tool that may not be the best fit and end in long discussions around symptoms of the problem but never arriving at an accurate root cause determination. Some of the more popular tools/techniques are as follows:
i) Brainstorming
ii) Cause and Effect Diagram (a.k.a Fishbone Diagram)
iii) Tree Diagram

3. When to Use it?

i. Brainstorming is often used as a primary means of establishing a means for the team to generate numerous ideas as to why an event occurred. Team members throw out ideas in a non-judgmental and encouraging atmosphere. This encourages “open thinking”, enthusiasm, and creativity.

ii. Cause and Effect Diagram (a.k.a Fishbone Diagram) this tool is often used to explore issues that are multi-factorial in nature and help team identify causes of the problem as opposed to symptoms of the problem. It enables team members to focus on the problem, identify the various elements that may contribute to the problem, and builds consensus.Tree Diagram displays the issue at hand and its related causes in a flow chart format that continues to ask the question “why”. It helps team members focus on issues contributing directly to the problem. Team members are able to graphically evaluate the causes of the problem, investigate and systematically arrive at a root cause.

iii. Tree Diagram displays the issue at hand and its related causes in a flow chart format that continues to ask the question “why”. It helps team members focus on issues contributing directly to the problem. Team members are able to graphically evaluate the causes of the problem, investigate and systematically arrive at a root cause.

Marie