Most of us encounter
problems
in our lives, either at work or at home. These problems cause stress in our minds and leave us exhausted. Instinctively, we start to take ad-hoc actions that we think will resolve the problem, but we soon realize that our actions are not effective and do not prevent or solve the core problem.
Structured problem solving
provides a systematic approach to identifying the root causes to a problem. Many scientific tools and methods have been developed to identify effective solutions to any problem. The most widely used problem-solving techniques are listed below:
-
Fishbone Diagram
Brainstorming
Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA)
SWOT matrix
5Whys
In this latest version of the book, I have added a new chapter with six additional problem-solving techniques as:
Six Thinking Hats
Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle
Hurson's Productive Thinking Model
Story Boarding
Means-Ends Analysis (MEA)
First Principles Thinking
Several organizations leverage these problem-solving methods to manage their problems at work. Learning about problem-solving tools will definitely help you to effectively solve your problems at work and in everyday life.
This book will give you an understanding of the different problem-solving tools along with
practical examples and applications of these tools.