How to Develop Structured Problem Solving Skills

Problems aren't roadblocks. They're invitations. An invitation to innovate. To rethink. To leap. The difference between stuck and unstoppable? It's not the challenge. It's you. Your lens. Your toolkit. Your willingness to dance with the difficulty. As a tech leader, your ability to solve complex issues can make or break your career. I've led teams across continents, industries, and crises. Here's what I've learned: 𝟭. 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝗶𝘀 Peel back the layers. Ask "Why?" repeatedly. You're not fixing a leak; you're redesigning the plumbing. 𝟮. 𝗦𝗪𝗢𝗧 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝗶𝘀 Map your battlefield. Know your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Sun Tzu would approve. 𝟯. 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 Visualize the chaos. Connect the dots. Your brain on paper, minus the mess. 𝟰. 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 Prepare for multiple futures. Be the chess player who sees ten moves ahead. 𝟱. 𝗦𝗶𝘅 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝘀 Wear different perspectives. Be the critic, the optimist, the data analyst, the artist, the operator. Your mind is pliable; use it. 𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨: - 76% of IT leaders rank problem-solving as the top soft skill (Global Knowledge) - Strong problem-solvers are 3.5x more likely to hit strategic goals (Harvard Business Review) - 70% of problem-solving pros drive more innovation (PwC) These aren't just methods. They're mindsets. Tools to reshape your thinking. I've used these to navigate multi-million-dollar projects and multinational teams. They work. Period. But the real differentiator: consistency. Use these daily. Make them habits. Your problem-solving muscle grows with every rep. Start now. Pick one method. Apply it to a current challenge. Share your results. The best tech leaders aren't born. They're forged in the fires of solving complex problems. What will you solve today?

How do you teach someone problem-solving skills? The first step is not giving them a problem to solve… it’s asking them to go find a problem! Recent OECD studies indicate that problem-solving skills, (particularly among adults!!) are not meeting the demands of today's rapidly evolving world. Leaders and manager are in prime position to change this in 2025!! 🧠 Problem-solving starts with the right mindset. Encourage a growth mindset where challenges are seen as opportunities to learn and improve. 🤔 And then it’s about cultivating curiosity- asking why they think something is happening, not just what is happening. Help them explore it from every angle (systems perspective): what’s really going on, who’s affected, and what makes it a problem in the first place. ⏸️ Stress the value of fully understanding the problem before jumping into solutions. A well-defined problem is half-solved. ❔ Focus on asking great questions...like "Who is affected by this problem, and how do they experience it?" and "What have we tried before, and why didn’t it work?" 📉 A lot of the time, gaps in problem solving skills are caused by lack of analytical skills...problem-solving isn’t just about finding answers; it’s about collecting and interpreting data. So, teach them to look for patterns, trends, and evidence that validate or disprove assumptions. 👂 Teach them also the importance of collaboration- help them learn how to listen actively to others’ ideas and build on them. 🧘♀️ Problem-solving can be frustrating. You may also need to help them develop emotional regulation skills to stay calm and focused. 🥼 Finally, guide them to test their solutions step-by-step, learn from what works (or doesn’t), and keep adjusting until they solve it. Problem-solving is a skill that improves with practice. Create opportunities for them to tackle real-life scenarios in safe, low-stakes environments. 👋 Don't forget to check in with the person regularly to reflect on their lessons learned and progress. Advise them that problem-solving doesn’t end when a countermeasure is implemented. There's a process to go through to monitor results, refine the approach, and find the next related problem to tackle. 🪜 And finally, I find that it's much easier to teach problem-solving with a structure or methodology that gives people a clear guide to thinking more scientifically. A clear, repeatable framework like the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle or the DMAIC (Define-Measure- Anayze-Improve-Control) are good options! What do you think? How do you teach #problemsolving skills to the people on your team? Leave your comments below 🙏

Most people chase quick fixes. Here's how experts actually solve problems. The blueprint for solving problems effectively: 1. IDEAL Framework ↳ Identify the problem ↳ Define the context ↳ Explore possible strategies ↳ Act on the best strategy ↳ Look back and learn 2. 5 Whys Technique ↳ Ask "Why?" repeatedly ↳ Dig deeper beyond surface symptoms ↳ Find root causes of problems 3. Design Thinking ↳ Empathise with user needs ↳ Define the problem clearly ↳ Ideate creative solutions ↳ Prototype low-fidelity versions ↳ Test and refine with feedback Expert frameworks for structured problem-solving: PDCA Cycle ↳ Plan: Identify and analyse ↳ Do: Implement solutions ↳ Check: Evaluate results ↳ Act: Standardize or restart OODA Loop ↳ Observe: Collect information ↳ Orient: Analyse and synthesise ↳ Decide: Choose action ↳ Act: Follow through Kepner-Tregoe Method ↳ Situation Appraisal ↳ Problem Analysis ↳ Decision Analysis ↳ Potential Problem Analysis The biggest mistake isn't trying to solve problems. It's not using a systematic approach when needed. ♻️ Reshare to help others solve problems better. 🔔 Follow Luke Tobin for more problem-solving insights.

Are you showing admiration for a problem? I listened to someone on the phone the other day, basically for the day, “admiring the problem”. If that whole 8 or so hours could have been spent on solution seeking, asking “what’s right with this?” the person and their team might be a little ahead. To move beyond this unproductive #mindset, here are some strategies people can adopt: 1. Reframe the Problem • Shift the focus from describing the problem to exploring opportunities for change. • Use solution-oriented language, such as “How might we…?” 2. Clarify the Desired Outcome • Define the goal or the ideal state you want to achieve. • Ask, “What does success look like?” 3. Break It Down • Deconstruct the problem into smaller, manageable pieces. • Address each part with specific actions. 4. Prioritize Action Over Analysis (Paralysis) • Set a time limit for discussing the problem, then transition to brainstorming solutions. • Encourage trying small, experimental solutions (e.g., prototyping in #designthinking). 5. Adopt a #Collaborative Approach • Engage diverse perspectives to generate ideas and build momentum. • Create an environment where everyone feels safe to contribute solutions. 6. Use Frameworks and Tools • Apply structured tools like root cause analysis, the 5 Whys, or SWOT analysis to understand and address the issue. • Visualize the path forward with a decision matrix or action plan. 7. #Empower Accountability • Assign ownership for tasks and follow up on progress. • Build systems that encourage responsibility, such as regular check-ins or deadlines. 8. Encourage a Bias Toward Experimentation • Shift from “getting it perfect” to “getting it started.” • View failures as learning opportunities. 9. Challenge Complacency • Ask tough questions to disrupt the cycle of inaction: • “What happens if we don’t solve this?” • “What’s one thing we could do right now to make progress?” 10. Leverage Emotional Intelligence • Identify emotional barriers, such as fear or frustration, that might keep people stuck. • Foster optimism and resilience in the face of challenges.

Master Problem-Solving Like a Boss 💪 Crushing complex problems requires a solid framework. Here's a comprehensive playbook to flex your problem-muscles: ✅ Step 1 - Validate You're Solving the Right Problem Use "5 Whys" to get to the root cause 🧐 Quantify business impact 🌊 Ensure it aligns to company goals 🎯 Consider opportunity cost ⚖️ Analyze cost of inaction 💀 🖼️ Step 2 - Frame Problems Broadly Identify the "jobs" customers need done 🤔 Envision how competitors could disrupt 👀 Get ahead of market trends 🔮 Expand your problem space 🤸♀️ 🛣️ Step 3 - Select the Optimal Solution Path Clarify risk appetite 🤞 Consult on technical feasibility 🤓 Find simplest viable solution 🔍 Pressure test thoroughly 🥊 Validate quickly with users 🚀 📆 Step 4 - Execute Structured Iterative Cycles Frame problem by gathering perspectives 🤹♀️ Explore solutions widely via brainstorming 💡 Prioritize ruthlessly ⚖️ Prototype and validate concepts quickly 🤝 Communicate updates clearly 🗣️ 💡 Step 5 - Apply Core Problem-Solving Principles Collaborate openly 🤝 Prioritize ruthlessly ⚖️ Prototype rapidly 🚀 Obsess over customers 🤝 Work incrementally 📈 Measure rigorously 📊 Communicate clearly 🗣️ Stay nimble ↩️ Now get out there and flex your problem-crushing muscles! 💪 Let me know your top problem-solving tips in the comments. 👇

Problem Solving Mastery What is the secret of efficient problem-solving? It is having a great framework to follow: Today I want to share this framework with you. Even though it may sound straightforward, Many people just forget about some steps, And then the process becomes inefficient. There are 8 key steps of problem solving: 1. Define problem “A problem well stated is a problem half solved.” - John Dewey Identify the problem, understand the context and implications. 2. Gather Data Accumulate relevant information through observation, research, and consultation. Make sure you have all relevant resources for a comprehensive understanding of the issue and its underlying causes. 3. Analyze Data Examine the collected data systematically to identify patterns, trends, and relationships. This will enable informed insights into the problem's nature and potential solutions. 4. Generate Solutions Brainstorm a range of potential solutions, considering diverse perspectives and innovative approaches. Try to generate the most effective solutions. 5. Select Solution Evaluate the generated solutions based on feasibility, impact, and alignment with objectives. Selecting the most suitable course of action to implement. 6. Plan Implementation Develop a detailed plan outlining the steps, resources, and timeline required to execute the chosen solution effectively Ensure clear communication and accountability. 7. Implement & Test Execute the planned solution, monitoring its implementation closely. Gather feedback to assess its effectiveness and identify any necessary adjustments. 8. Continue to Improve "Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence." - Vince Lombardi Iterate and refine the implemented solution based on ongoing evaluation and feedback. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the organization. As you can see - one missing point can destroy the full process. If you do not define the problem well: You might work in the wrong direction. If you do not gather data: You might not understand the root causes. If you do not improve existing solutions: You might stick to the inefficient processes. Make sure to remember all the steps: This way you will ensure top efficiency.

To become a top data analyst you need to be a strong problem solver! Follow this structure to find the real reasons behind business problems: 1. 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Start by clearly stating the issue. For example, “We’ve observed a significant decrease in sales in the UK over the last few days.”   2. 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮: Collect relevant information such as order processing times, customer service interactions, inventory levels, and active marketing campaigns.   3. 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮: Use tools like SQL, Python, or Excel to analyze the data. Look for patterns, trends, and anomalies that could point to the root cause.   4. 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘀: Brainstorm all possible reasons for the issue. Use methods like the 5 Whys technique to investigate each potential cause more deeply.   5. 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗛𝘆𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲𝘀: Test your hypotheses against the data to see if they are supported. If not, refine your hypotheses and test again.   6. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Once you’ve identified the root cause, support the business by showing possible solutions to address it. Monitor the results to ensure the issue is resolved. 𝗔 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹-𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗲𝘅𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗺𝘆 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁: We notice an increase in customer lead time and here’s how we tackle it. 1. 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: “Customer lead time has increased by 20% in the last three months.”     2. 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮: We collected data on order processing, sales forecast deviation, and shipping times.     3. 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮: We found that the actual sales were in line with the forecast, and shipping times had remained constant. However, order processing times had increased significantly.     4. 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲𝘀: We checked factors such as outages in warehouses, staffing issues due to high sickness rates, and process inefficiencies resulting from operating close to maximum capacity.     5. 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗛𝘆𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲𝘀: Data revealed that a spike in the sickness rate had reduced the available workforce.     6. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: We proposed to increase capacity buffers by 5% to 10% during the winter and hiring additional temporary workers to address the situation in the short term.   Following this approach for your root-cause analysis, you will become a valued problem-solving partner for your stakeholders. How do you ensure you’re addressing the root cause of an issue and not just the symptoms? ---------------- ♻️ 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 if you find this post useful. ➕ 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 for more daily insights on how to grow your career in the data field. #dataanalytics #datascience #rootcauseanalysis #problemsolving #careergrowth

The Case of the Costly Error Once upon a time, a critical bug in a bustling software company was reported in their flagship product just days before a major release. Panic spread through the team like wildfire. The bug was complex, and time was running out. At first, the team tried the usual approach—frantic debugging and patching. But the bug kept reappearing like a stubborn ghost. As deadlines loomed closer, frustration mounted. That's when Jane, one of the senior developers, stepped in. She suggested a different approach: structured problem-solving. She gathered the team in a meeting room and laid out a plan: 01. Define the Problem: They dissected the bug, identified its specific behaviors, and defined the problem statement clearly. 02. Collect Data: They gathered data on when the bug occurred, what actions triggered it, and the system conditions at that moment. 03. Generate Hypotheses: The team brainstormed potential causes, generating multiple hypotheses. 04. Test Hypotheses: They systematically tested each hypothesis individually, isolating variables and gathering more data. 05. Analyze Results: Based on the data collected, they analyzed the results of each test and eliminated hypotheses that didn't hold up. 06. Implement Solution: Finally, they identified the root cause and implemented a solution that fixed the bug once and for all. The bug was squashed, and the release went off without a hitch. What could have been a disaster turned into a valuable lesson. Structured problem-solving saved the day! → When faced with a daunting challenge, don't rush into solutions. Take a structured approach. #dhandhekafunda ps: Structured problem-solving approach acts as a compass when you are not emotionally trapped in the situation. If you are, have another competent individual take the lead. At least be that structured ;)

Structure is an underrated superpower. For starters it breeds confidence, trust and shows respect for others' time, let alone your own. Today, I am sharing my 1-3-1 problem-solving framework. I use this method when taking a consultative approach to sharing how I would solve a problem. For context, I coach founders to use this same approach in the first few slides of their pitch deck to frame the problem they are solving. So this is how it works. [1] Share one single problem you are focusing on and if possible quantify how big and frequent the problem is [3] Share three different ways people/ businesses solve this problem today, informed by research [1] Share one single recommendation, explaining why it is superior to the existing alternatives I used this last week in a workshop where I played the role of facilitator and guided a team through this framework in one hour to arrive at a recommended next step they could take to solve a problem they had been debating for months. Try it with your team and let me know how you get on.

Wait… we’re 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴? There are 2 types of it (solving the wrong problem): #1 Prioritizing trivial issues → Spending time on problems that don’t really matter, just because they’re more visible. → Yes, not all problems are equally important — and not all problems are worth solving. #2 Failing to find the real “problem” behind the symptom → A symptom is an indicator that something is wrong (i.e., what you see), often surface-level. → A problem is the underlying cause behind that symptom (i.e., what you need to fix) — often hidden and requiring analysis to identify. → For example: Say your B2B app has low adoption? You assume the user isn’t guided enough? i.e., it’s an 𝗼𝗻𝗯𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺? But dig deeper, you discover users simply don’t see the value in the app.. ..It’s a 𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺! a completely different issue. So, how do we avoid this? → Start with structure: define the problem, break it down using logic trees and MECE principles, validate your hypothesis with facts, before rushing to solve. Then you’ll have a 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴, Instead of messy thinking, biased assumptions, or flawed logic. How about you? Have you seen teams spend time fixing the wrong issue? Or realize too late that the real problem was something else? 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆! 👉 For more: aseptamar.com https://tinyurl.com/ATPSSP — 💬 Message me for training, collaborations, or inquiries via LinkedIn or WhatsApp (contact info at aseptamar.com): [Corporate Workshop] Tailor-made in-class sessions using your company’s real decks. #331