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Problem Solving - The 7 Step Process

Writer's picture: Udayan Salim BanerjeeUdayan Salim Banerjee

Updated: Feb 17, 2024

This could be not because the process is faulty, but its implementation is. For even a well structured process can only deliver desired results if used correctly.


Same is with the 7 Step Problem Solving Process. 


As a process it's proven. Yet, if implemented the Wrong Way (actions indicated in red italics) - it FAILS. Implemented the Right Way (actions indicated in green) with relevant tools (indicated in purple) - it SUCCEEDS. 


Imagine what would happen if, instead of 'Deep Dive' (right way - green action) to get more information for greater clarity and understanding of the problem, you instead choose to define the problem at 'Face Value' (wrong way - red action) with insufficient and possibly irrelevant information. 


OR, you make limited 'Assumptions' (wrong way - red action) regarding the cause of the problem based solely on your past experience and on how much (or how little) you know. Problems have multiple causes, some direct & some indirect, some obvious & some deeply hidden, so you can't rely always only on your memory or intelligence to identify them all, but you can always rely on tools such as Fishbone Diagram and Mind Map (purple actions) to 'Generate Options' ( right way - green action) that comprehensively cover 'all possible causes or Hypothesis'. 


ALSO, when you 'Assume,' you 'Manipulate Facts To Prove your Assumptions' (wrong way - red action). What we need to do is, to 'Collect Real Facts' ( right way - green action) using Data Collection Tools (purple actions) to identify the actual causes.


WORSE STILL, is finding solutions for the Symptom (wrong way - red action) instead of the Root Cause (right way - green action). One big reason why problems tend to reoccur. Do RCA (right way - green action) with 5 WHYs (purple action) and then move on to solutions. 


Problems are unique and need to be properly analysed on a case to case basis, even the repeat ones. So use the process and use it right, with the tools. 


Stop RED, Go GREEN & PURPLE. 





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