The Truth about Analytical Problem Solving

It's no different to solving any other problem!

While I truly believe all problems can be solved by making informed decisions based with data, the main component of this relies on your ability to problem-solve effectively.

How many times have you caught yourself saying that there could be no other solution to a problem and that that problem leads to a dead-end? How many times have you felt stumped knowing that the problem laying before you is one you cannot solve. No leads. No options. No solutions.

Did it feel like you had exhausted all possible options and yet are still before the mountain, unconquerable? The pressure of having to solve such a problem may be overwhelming.

Don’t worry! There are several techniques you can learn!

With some creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light. And that light might just be the end of the tunnel that leads to possible solutions.

First of all, in the light of creative problem-solving, you must be open-minded to the fact that there may be more than just one solution to the problem. Finally, you must be open to the fact that there may be solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.

Now, with this optimistic mindset, we can try to be a little bit more creative in solving our problems.

1. Maybe the reason we cannot solve our problems is that we have not really taken a hard look at what the problem is. Here, trying to understanding the problem and having a concrete understanding of its workings is integral to solving the problem. If you know how it works, what the problem is, then you have a better foundation towards solving the problem.
2. Not trying to make a simple statement of what the problem is. Try to identify the participating entities and what their relationships with one another are. Take note of the things you stand to gain any stand to lose from the current problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is aka the problem statement.
3. Try to take note of all of the constraints and assumptions you have in the words of the problem. Sometimes it is these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible solutions. You have to identify which assumptions are valid, in which assumptions need to be addressed.
4. Try to solve the problem in parts. Solve it going from a general view towards the more detailed parts of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the question, and then come up with a one-sentence solution to that from them. The solution should be a general statement of what will solve the problem. From here you can develop the solution further, and increase its complexity little by little.
5. Although it helps to have critical thinking aboard as you solve a problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at the back of your head. When someone comes up with a prospective solution, try to think about how you could make that solution work. Try to be creative. At the same time, look for chinks in the armor of that solution.
6. It pays to remember that there may be more than just one solution being developed at one time. 3 individuals with the same task may take 3 completely different approaches and that’s ok, we’re all creative in our own ways. Try to keep track of all the solutions and their developments. A project tracker can really help with this
7. Remember that old adage," two heads are better than one." That one is truer than it sounds. Always be open to new ideas. You can only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person has. This is especially true when the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems similar to yours. Think of the 2nd attack on the Death Star (Star Wars reference).
8. Number seven; be patient. As long as you persevere, there is always a chance that a solution will present itself. Remember that no one was able to create an invention the first time around.

Creative thinking exercises can also help you in your quest to be a more creative problem solver.

Here is one example.

Take a piece of paper and write any word that comes to mind at the center. Now, look at that word then write the first two words that come to your mind. This can go on until you can build a tree of related words. This helps you build analogical skills, and fortify your creative processes.

So, next time you see a problem you think you can not solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative thinking, some planning, and a whole lot of work.

To quote Jeff Goldblum in Jurassic Park, "life finds a way" and so will you with problem-solving.