Structured Problem Solving

Avoid boiling the ocean in search of an answer. Learn how to blend structure, logic and creativity to rigorously and rapidly identify, test and select the right solution.

 Problem solving is a core part of our daily work, but can be inefficient and ineffective, due to a number of reasons, including:

• Insufficient time spent on understanding the real problem & it’s causes
• Jumping to easy solutions
• Letting bias & emotion takeover decision making at the expense of logic
• Failing to move the most appropriate ideas through to implementation

This highly interactive training workshop will help address these issues. The approach used is appropriate to a range of situations, from day to day operational and tactical issues to more strategic problems. The focus is on thinking about a problem from structured, logical and creative perspectives.

The course follows a process which moves from problem definition to the evaluation and selection of effective & efficient solutions.The session will provide you with proven tools, techniques and tips and give you the opportunity to discuss your issues and develop practical solutions.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand common problem solving traps and how to avoid them
• Understand techniques to define and identify potential causes of a problem
• Apply tools and techniques to identify appropriate solutions
• Analyse and decide upon the best solutions

This course combines well with: 

• Fast Project Planning™

 Format options

• 1 day
• 3-12 participants

Target audience

• All staff

Areas covered

• Problem solving process
• Top down thinking, root cause analysis
• Hypothesis based analysis
• Brainstorming
• Evaluation & decision making