Skill of the Week: Problem-Solving
Context
Problem-solving is a skill best practiced in a collaborative group setting. Arriving at possible solutions in isolation may produce some reasonably good approaches, but when a more comprehensive big-picture solution is needed, there is great value in working with others to feed off of each other in idea generating.
Even in a group setting, there’s a temptation to pit one person’s ideas against another which is a waste of resources given that ideas generated by a collaborative group will be significantly superior to the sum of the individuals’ ideas.
Individual problem-solving is needed too: it’s just more challenging because you have to force yourself to find others who can support you along the way. Bring other trusted individuals along with you to be sources of encouragement, provide different perspectives, and hold you accountable.
What is Problem Solving?
Understand the true nature of the problem
Recognize that there is a problem, and clearly identify what it is.
Brainstorm various possibilities (and combinations of possibilities)
This is the step that is central to the identity of problem solving: exploring possibilities and determining potential solutions. Ideally as part of a team, create a list of as many possible approaches or solutions as possible. Depending on the nature of the problem identified, there may need to be several rounds of brainstorming to delve deeper into approaches and consider combining ideas for more comprehensive, valuable solutions (see Integrative Thinking).
Select the best approach to solving the problem
This involves investigating the consequences of each potential approach or solution with as little bias as possible. If you have been the idea generator for specific ideas, there is a tendency to push that particular solution, even if there are better options out there. In addition, selecting the best approach needs to have a detailed plan (depending on the complexity) of who is responsible for doing what at what time and which place. Don’t forget the why: to resolve the problem stated at the beginning.
Implement the plan
With a good plan in place, it is now up to each person involved to do their agreed upon role. Sometimes this is easier said than done.
Reflect and Adjust as new information becomes available
Just as with SMART goal-setting, there need to be specified check-ins to ensure that the plan is running smoothly, and is beginning to see some headway in resolving the problem. If not, there needs to be an evaluation to see if adjustments are needed, or whether the plan should be abandoned and a better plan developed.
Tripping Hazards & Overcoming Them
1. Trouble getting to the root of the problem
Sometimes we are treating a symptom and not the cause of the problem. Putting a Band-aide on a gaping wound would do no good. This requires observation & a level of expertise that understands the condition behind the symptom.
2. Rushed, Uninspired “Brainstorming”
Internal or external time constraints or a lack of motivation to brainstorm real potential solutions or approaches is likely the #1 challenge to successful problem-solving. It requires a certain level of ingenuity, innovation and creativity. Some people jump at the opportunity to put their creative juices to work, while many more would prefer a root canal. Attitude and framing the brainstorming well can lead to so much potential: participants can drop their guards and let any and every idea come flowing out- no matter how ridiculous. Even the most ridiculous, outside-the-box ideas can inspire others to share or may be a piece of a larger solution.
3. Short-Sightedness
Again, time constraints can put a damper on the effectiveness of selecting the best possible solution, especially if it actually lies in a combination of different ideas that were initially brainstormed. Big picture thinking will allow testing of the potential solutions across various domains, so as to reduce unintended additional problems. If you have ever done a home renovation, one small project will usually balloon into a larger-scale overhaul simply through the discovery of new problems unearthed as the small project gets underway. Approaching a renovation with the anticipation that the problem is more complex as it first appears will lead to fewer surprises. Likewise, digging deeper in defining the problem and exploring solutions minimizes the secondary problems or at least makes them more manageable.
4. Give up too easily
Challenges will come. It takes real determination and persistence to see it through. There may be some barriers to smooth problem-solving. It takes team-work to push and pull each other to see the desired result. If this is a personal problem-solving, it is always better to have one or more people supporting you (i.e. accountability partner, coach, and cheerleader).
5. Inflexible approach
Though this may seem contrary to persistence, it is important to know when it is time to make adjustments. Once a plan is put into place, and it has been rolled out, it can be tough to pivot or change direction (particularly for larger organizations and groups). That can even be a problem for small groups or individuals attempting to solve problems. Adaptability is required to maneuver through changing circumstances and persist through to see a solution come to fruition.
Happy problem-solving!
Matt Bean
www.foundationscareercoaching.ca
Some more great reading on problem-solving can be found at:
Integrative Thinking Video