Problem Solving

Synopsis

The success of the continuous improvement effort is heavily dependent upon the capability of people to effectively identify, analyze and eliminate problems they encounter. However, many problem solving efforts are hampered by: 

• decisions by authority rather than data
• knee-jerk opinions
• attacking symptoms
• search for blame

These approaches create learning disabilities within companies. To overcome these obstacles, everyone at your company must share a common thought-process for effectively solving problems. 

In many organizations, the inability to effectively identify the cause of problems and then eliminate them is a major source of frustration and stress. Problems keep coming back increasing costs, decreasing quality, harming the relationship with customers and frustrating everyone.

While there are many methods for solving problems, they all share four key principals: 

• The problem must be clearly defined, so people know what problem is being solved and what successful resolution of the problem will look like.
• Merely "solving" symptoms must be avoided; everyone must focus on identifying and eliminating the under-lying causes of the problem.
• The chosen solutions must eliminate the problem and not cause additional problems in the future or in other places in the organization.
• Once fixed, problems must stay fixed. The organization must track and measure solutions to problems.

While problem-solving can be a lengthy and complex topic, this module will provide a foundation upon which leaders can more fully develop their skills in more in-depth courses.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module participants will understand:  

• The importance of clear problem definition.
• The need to identify root causes of problems rather than just symptoms. 
• The importance of involving the people closest in space and time to the problem in solving the problem.
• Critical elements of gathering qualitative, assessment data.
• The importance of developing solutions that provide the best leverage for solving the problem.

Participants will be able to: 

• Write clear and concise problem statements.
• Work through a process to identify the root cause(s) of a problem.
• Unlock their thought process and think creatively about solutions.
• Create feedback loops and take other actions to ensure the problems they solve stay fixed.