Smart Problem Solving With Simple Solutions to Everyday Challenges

Companies today are looking for employees who are capable of not just identifying problems but also addressing them efficiently. It is typical for people to identify problems, but finding solutions is frequently the more difficult task. Also, when it comes to problem solving, there is a tendency to focus too much on the individuals involved rather than immediately addressing the issue. A Chinese proverb makes up this dynamic perfectly:

"Weak minds discuss people, average minds discuss events, and strong minds discuss ideas."

We may actually see innovation flourish if we shift our focus to creatively producing and sharing ideas without bias or judgment.

Here are five simple and effective problem-solving techniques that experts suggest for both personal and business issues:

1. Root Cause Analysis (RCA)

• What it is? This strategy explores deeply to identify the root cause of an issue in order to prevent it from repeating again. The "5 Whys" is a common RCA technique in which you continuously asking "why?" until you discover the root of the problem.
• When to Use It: It's ideal for frequent problems, preventing future problems, and dealing with complex situations when the source is not obvious.

2. Brainstorming?

• What it is? This involves brainstorming a large number of ideas in a group, focusing on originality, and initially refraining from passing judgment. -
• When to Use It: Use this when you need fresh ideas, need to look outside the box, or want to involve everyone in finding a solution.

3. Decision Matrix

• What it is? A organized way to comparing prospective solutions consists of listing options, creating criteria, rating each option against the criteria, and computing a score.
• When to Use It: This strategy is useful when you have numerous solutions and need to compare them objectively, or when you need to obtain a group consensus.

4. PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act)

• What it is? An iterative four-step strategy in which you propose a change, test it on a limited scale (do), evaluate the outcomes, and adjust before completely implementing it (act).
• When to Use It: It's ideal for improving procedures, reducing risks in large projects, and making improvements as you go.

5. SWOT Analysis?

• What it is? This strategy evaluates the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with a problem or solution.
• When to Use It: SWOT analysis is useful when you need to gain a full understanding of a problem, make strategic decisions, or conduct a risk assessment.

Important note:
 - There is no single "best" way. You can combine and modify these strategies as needed. The type of problem and its context will determine which solution is best. 

- Define the problem clearly. A comprehensive grasp of the problem you're attempting to address makes it much easier to locate the best answer.         

Whether you are dealing with daily job challenges or more complex personal issues, these techniques can help you become a more successful problem solver. Interested in learning more about any of these methods? Let me know, and I will share my knowledges, Skills and experiences

About Author

K M Hasan Ripon is a prominent figure in the field of career development and entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. Hasan Ripon is an example of expertise, serving as the Executive Director of Bangladesh Skill Development Institute (BSDI), the Managing Director of Global Entrepreneurship Network Bangladesh, and the Vice President of Start and Improve Your Business Foundation of Bangladesh.

Hasan Ripon has worked as a consultant for over 300 national and international organizations, accumulating a wide range of experiences. He has inspired over 100,000 youth and graduating students at Bangladesh's 150+ public and private Universities, colleges and polytechnics, as well as over 20 international universities. As a skills activist and inspiring speaker, he has a social media following of over 3 million people.

Hasan Ripon is well-known in Bangladesh for his strategic abilities, having founded and sustained more than 30 organizations, educational establishments, and youth-led initiatives. With travel to 64 districts in Bangladesh and visits to 40 countries as an appreciated speaker and workshop facilitator, his impact transcends borders.

His professional development programs address topics such as communication, leadership, customer service, team building, negotiation, and problem solving, digital transformation, artificial intelligence and 4IR focused skills.

Hasan Ripon's diverse experience includes roles as a President at JCI Bangladesh, Short-Term Consultant at the World Bank, Consultant for Industry 4.0 (HTS) at a2i, ICT Division (Government agencies), and Master Trainer & Industry Assessor (CBT&A) at ILO, CEO of Jobsbd.com, Principal at Daffodil polytechnic, adjunct Associate Professor and Employability Mentor at Daffodil International University and many more.

The Peace Award 2013 by JCI Bangladesh (Dhaka Central), the Education Leadership Award by IIT, Delhi, and the 2017 Inspiration Award as a Change Maker & Motivator have all decorated his path. Hasan Ripon's story is one of passion, impact, and an uncompromising commitment to shaping Bangladesh's future of work and skills. Contact: [email protected]