Building Blocks of Problem-Solving

When many of us think of problem-solving, we think of literally just finding any answer to solve X problem. The fact is that problem-solving can be much more complex than that. In fact, the definition of problem-solving even changes based on what we’re applying it to. In this case, we are covering the basic building blocks of problem-solving when it comes to personal and business life problems.

Image Description: Stacked Orange Cubes

The Four Parts of Problem-Solving

In order to problem-solve to the best of our ability, we have to break it down into four different parts.

For the first part, we are going to define the problem. In order to do this, ensure you have all the necessary people needed (if it’s a work team problem then all coworkers/leaders for example) and answer the following questions as seen on the graphic below:

Part two is then determining the root cause. The root cause is the thing that leads to every other minor problem. Without determining the root, you are bound to repeat the same problem(s) over and over again. Since finding the root cause of an issue may be a complicated and multi-step process on its own, check out this article for help in doing so! Moving onto part three, reviewing and executing a solution. This is the time to think up a solution. You’ll want to ensure that you have thought up multiple solutions and even things that work for both long and short term. After you feel satisfied that you have every aspect of the problem covered, it’s time to review all the ideas that have been brought about by doing so. Below are some questions to help with both parts of this step.

By spending time on different solutions, and not just charging through with your first one, you are more likely to find a better solution or vastly improve the initial one you had. Once you’ve created and gone over your solution(s), it’s time to execute (the plan, of course)! If this solution is a change for something big (like work), you will want to iron out details of what, who, and when this plan will go. Additionally, you will want to be certain that it’s communicated clearly to whom it affects. Another good idea is testing this plan out on a much smaller scale first. This way you can see if anything unexpected happens and if your solution is as effective as you thought it would be. Finally, the last part is maintaining your results. There is not as much work to be done here, more so consistently seeing that your solution is effective. If a solution is not panning out the way you thought it would, or the problem does not seem to be fixed, it may be time to review the earlier parts and see where you may have misjudged. For example, if the problem keeps resurfacing, it’s time to go back to part two and rework that root cause. If your solution didn’t quite turn out the way you had intended, or just didn’t work quite right, revisit part three and see what else you could do and better implement it this time. Remember that change is not usually instant, and especially if it involves others (like work issues for instance), it may take time for everyone to adapt. With the building blocks down, why is problem-solving such an essential skill?

Key Benefits of Good Problem-Solving

Besides the obvious answer that problem-solving, well, solves your problems, it actually has many additional benefits. As we detailed out the steps earlier, you can begin to see the importance with other vital skills being developed/enhanced like:

• Creativity & Strategizing

  • Generating new ideas

  • Collaborating with others to form new ideas

• Critical Thinking

  • Analyzing different ideas and then narrowing them down

• Prioritizing

  • Deciding what is important to fix problems

As this passage from LinkedIn says, “A key benefit of problem solving is that it helps you succeed even when working under pressure. Effective problem solvers often have personalities that make them thrive when there's a deadline approaching or they're facing a complex workplace challenge. By applying analytical thinking to these situations, you may determine if a problem requires a quick or a more complex but long-term solution. It also helps you guide and calm your colleagues in moments of stress.” Another plus to good problem-solving is risk management. When you are able to lay out actions and consequences, and make decisions about them efficiently, you can begin to see when a risk is worth taking. This also leads to more confidence as you feel comfortable in the choices you make.

Well-Equipped to Effectively Problem-Solve!

By learning the different building blocks of problem-solving, and understanding the importance of effective problem-solving, you’re all set to handle adversity in the best way possible!