Problem Solving

PROBLEM SOLVING

PROBLEM: Any deviation from the standard. 

                      A gap between actual and desired condition. 

                      An unfulfilled customer need. 

PROBLEMS (Types): 1. Standard not achieved.

                                      2. Standard achieved, but a higher standard is now required.

                                      3. Performance to standard varies (not constantly achieved).

There is no person in this world without any problem. There is no development without any problem. Try to solve a problem with innovative thoughts and higher order thinking skills. Problems are stepping stones for success.There are so many tips to solve a problem.

7 Steps to Problem Solving

1. Definition
2. Data Collection ( what)
3. Cause Analysis (why)
4. Solution Planning + Implementation
5. Evaluation of Effects
6. Standardization
7. Evaluation of Process

Source: Ed Muzio, CEO, GROUP HARMONICS ( 7 Steps problem solving, youtube video).

Toyota's 8 Steps Practical Problem Solving Methodologies

1. Define the problem
2. Build a team
3. Containment action
4. Determine the root cause
5. Verify the root cause
6. Corrective action
7. Prevention
8. Congratulate the team

Source: Gemba Academics (http://GembaAcademy.com)

PROBLEM-SOLVING PROCESS

RCA (Root Cause Analysis):

RCA: A process for identifying the underlying causes of a problem (including actual or possible occurrences of the problem), and then planning, testing, implementing, learning from, and revising solution. 

• Focussed on a process, not individuals.
• Identify and remove root cause (s) to prevent a problem from reoccurring. 

Steps of Rool Cause Analysis

1. Organize a well-defined team (if department/programme)
2. Define the problem
3. Analyze contributing factors and the root causes.
4. Test the best solutions/actions items & implement the plan
5. evaluate the results and process
6. share the results. 

PROBLEM-SOLVING MODELS

IDEA Model:

 Identity    (Symptoms/Effects)

 Develop    (Pros & Cons, Weighted Rubric, & SWOT Analysis)

 Executive (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant & Time Bound Gols)

 Assess       (Survey, Tests, Analysis, & Focus Group)

IDEAL Model:

PDSA Cycle  Model: 

Conclusion: Nothing is impossible. Don't wait for the perfect moment. Take the moment and make it perfect. Good things come to those who believe. Better things come to those who wait. And the best things come to those who 'Don't Give Up'. Everything is possible with love and hard work.