Problem Solving & Decision Making for Solution Implementation

A problem is any difference between an actual situation and a desired situation. When the course of action towards a desired objective is not easy or routine, then we say we have a ‘problem’. To identify and analyse a problem, you must examine and identify the problem in terms of problem type, problem parameters and probable causes.

The purpose of using problem solving techniques is to organise the information you have gathered so that you can assess, compare, and contrast solutions. Once you have generated workable solutions by any of the methods, you must establish the criteria for the solution.

Selecting the solution one must also avoid some pitfalls in the decision making. Stakeholder involvement is a must, and a problem has not been solved until the decision has been implemented. Once the solution is settled on you need to develop an action plan. Through the evaluation process you find the solution is not solving the problem, you must repeat the problem-solving process to find a solution that works.