This article provides a simple and structured approach to problem solving.  The approach referred to is generally designed for problem solving in an organisation or group context, but can also be adapted to work with indivduals.

What is a Problem?

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The Concise Oxford Dictionary (1995) defines a problem as:

“A doubtful or difficult matter requiring a solution”
and   
    “Something hard to understand or accomplish or deal with.”

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All problems have two features in common: goals and barriers.

Goals

 

Problems involve setting out to achieve some objective or desired state of affairs and can include avoiding a situation or event.

Barriers

 

If there were no barriers in the way of achieving a goal, then there would be no problem.  Problem solving involves overcoming the barriers or obstacles that prevent the immediate achievement of goals.

Effective problem solving usually involves a number of steps:

• Identification:  Detecting and recognising that there is a problem; identifying the nature of the problem; defining the problem.
• Structuring:  A period of observation, careful inspection, fact-finding and developing a clear picture of the problem.
  
• Looking for Possible Solutions:  Generating a range of possible courses of action, but with little attempt to evaluate them at this stage.
• Making a Decision:  This stage involves careful analysis of the different possible courses of action and then selecting the best solution for implementation. Also see our section on decision making.
• Implementation:  Accepting and carrying out the chosen course of action.
• Monitoring/Seeking Feedback:  Reviewing the outcomes of problem solving over a period of time, including seeking feedback as to the success of the outcomes of the chosen solution.