PROBLEM SOLVING, A PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE

"Problem solving is what you do when you don't know what to do."

Frankly, I don't know who had defined it as such, but it certainly gives an interesting perspective.

All I know is that a problem is essentially a question that motivates me to search for a solution or solutions.

Tactically, this implies that, firstly, I need to solve the problem.

Secondly, I have to search for a way or maybe several ways to find a solution.

Looking at it from a deeper or rather organisational perspective, a problem exists when there is an apparent gap between the current performance level ("what is") of a process, product or service, & the desired performance level ("what must be", or "what should be", or "what would be").

Hence, problem solving can be defined as the systematic investigation of a problem to identify the root causes of the gap, exploring & evaluating alternatives to resolve it, deciding on the best option, taking corrective action to eliminate the gap, & keeping it from occurring in the future.

From my days of engineering experience, here's a simple problem solving model:

- describe the problem;

- understand the current process, product or service;

- identify the root causes;

- explore & weigh various alternatives;

- select the best option;

- develop the solution;

- implement the solution;

- review & evaluate outcomes or results;

- reflect & act on the learning or feedback;

Considering it further from a truly personal perspective, I would say problem solving is also the ability to find answers to life's everyday difficulties.

Effective problem solving leads to joyful everyday experiences, & also enables the planning of one's future path.

Therefore, suffice to say, planning is an important aspect of problem solving.