In an earlier post, I shared some steps for identifying the problem using creative problem solving or the Leading Innovation process.
I often use this systemic problem-solving process to fight the team and leaders’ desire to brainstorm. Brainstorming is usually carried out in a group situation, with each group member suggesting ideas in sequence without criticism to gather inventive ideas. Brainstorming is trying to create ideas or solutions by trial and error. It usually produces a lot of ideas, but many are worthless or just poor variations of what has already been implemented or attempted.
Problem-solving is systematic; It is organized into six stages:
- Identify the problem
- Select the type of problem
- Apply the analytical tools
- Define a specific problem
- Apply solutions tools
- Compile ideas and implement solutions
Step 2: Current Situation
Here we gather the background and history of the problem, including the current status of the problem. We document the results of previous work or experiments that have been done or are in progress and what is currently planned.
2.1 Containment of the problem.
- Is a containment plan needed (quick fix or compromise, or “band-aid”) to mitigate the impact of the problem? If so, develop and implement a containment plan.
2.2 Problem Background and History – Problem Background Description:
- Describe the details of the problem and how the system or process operates typically. This may require a technical content expert.
- If relevant, list competing or similar systems or processes and describe their performance, operations, etc.
Data/Results
- Summarize existing data and information.
- Describe when the problem was first observed.
- Identify if the problem is intermittent or continuous, etc.
- Gather all data analysis, results of any experiments, graphs, trend charts, tests for commonalities to specific tools, resources, circumstances, etc.
2.3 Plans
- Summarize the currently planned actions, planned data analysis, planned experiments, or experiments in progress and identify their purpose.
- If the root cause is unknown, investigate the root cause.
2.4 Resources Needed
- Having reviewed the problem definition and background,
- List any specific resources that are estimated or may be needed to solve the problem.