Step-by-step explanation:
The four basic steps to problem solving are:
1. Identify the Issues
Different people may have different views on an issue. To identify the issues, allow everyone affected to share what they think is the problem.
2. Understand Interests
This is a critical step that is often overlooked. Once everyone has shared their views on a situation, it’s useful to analyze why they feel this way about it. In this step, you must be accepting of everyone’s differences. Understanding interests accurately also relies on active listening. By understanding interests, you will be able to better choose a solution that satisfies everyone’s needs.
3. Define the Problem
Defining the problem can easily be conflated by emotion. To efficiently solve problems, you should be objective rather than subjective. No matter if a problem is small like choosing what to eat or large like choosing your major in college, defining a problem accurately is the basis of solving it properly.
The Kipling Method: A well-known method to define a problem comes from Rudyard Kipling, a famous poet. The 6 necessary elements to describe a problem include:
What is the problem?
Why is it important to fix the problem?
When did the problem start? What is the deadline to fix it?
How did the problem begin? What’s its cause?
Where is the problem happening?
Who is affected by it?
4. Define the Goals
To solve a problem, you need to know what the goals are. In a team, it’s important that the goal is communicated. This way, everyone can work together to achieve the desired outcome.
