Basics of problem solving

Any problem is solvable. How do you define a problem? Let's be more specific to engineering problem solving. For example, chronic equipment failure. Is that an engineering problem? Problem solving is an art where you would learn by involving more in problem solving exercise.

When a problem is given, the easiest thing to do would be to apply logical deduction. This could be right at times but not necessarily the best problem-solving method.

How than do you solve a problem? Let me share with you the basics of problem solving that has worked for me in almost all engineering issues I have dealt with.

1. Define the problem

The first stage is more investigative reasoning. You ask the 5W + H questions to diagnose the problem. Avoid guess work. Get the facts and establish the story line. Use data to define the problem. As you know, a problem well-defined is problem half-solved.

2. Set-up investigation team

First step helps you define the problem statement. The next stage is to setup investigation team. The important element of this process is people. You need to select the right people with the right level of knowledge and experience pertaining to the problem. The time lag between investigation and coming up with remediation plan depends largely on the people. The function of the investigation team is to establish facts around the problem that was defined in step#1. You gather more data and information to uncover potential causes of the problem.

3. Brainstorm solutions

I prefer a whiteboard session. At this stage, you already have a half-solved problem. Appoint a facilitator to conduct a brainstorming session. The session allows the team members to share their findings on the possible cause (s) of the problem. Everyone is allowed to participate without any reservation. The facilitator should encourage equal participation from everyone to arrive at an unbiased set of action.

4. Summarize the solution

Here is you stitching the points together to complete the story line. At this stage, you would already know the potential cause (s) of the problem. For each potential cause, you would link to the possible solution action as either a mitigation measure or a preventative measure of the problem. The success lies in connecting the right cause with the right solution action.

5. Execute the solution action

This is the implementation stage. Every solution action has to have an action owner, and timeframe of when the action is expected to be completed. Setup follow-up meeting to track progress.

6. Review and follow-up

This is the last stage to drive discipline in action closeout process. This ensure all actions are fully implemented to prevent repetition of similar problem in the future.

You have just learnt how to solve any problem.