Developing and Selecting Solutions
Graham Parker’s Structured Problem Solving Guide describes the problem solving process in four phases, one of which is Developing and Selecting Solutions (Phase 4). The other phases are not summarized here, however, it is noteworthy to mention that Phase 4 is the entering into solution development, whereas during the first three Phases of the process, specific problems of study have already been defined, a selection process is undertaken to decide which problems to address, and finally the problem to be studied is characterized by the collection and analysis of the data to be studied. We then pick up the process of developing solutions for addressing the problems identified in the previous phases, as we enter Phase 4.
This particular stage of the Creative Problem Solving process is regarded as the primary decision-making stage. The function of implementing solutions hinges on two basic ideas: (1) consideration of the possible solutions by studying the results of the previous stages and the ideas they generated; and (2) development of evaluation criteria.
A simplified approach to solution development is the "in-house" search for solutions on the presumption that there are no new problems, only unsolved ones. This simply suggests the research team ask, "has anyone else had this problem?" Consideration would be given to a problem of similar circumstances, how they solved the problem previously, if the solution was successful, and if any disadvantages resulted from the solutions implemented. This method simply uses history to our advantage so that don’t find ourselves re-creating a solution that perhaps has already been developed that would serve current needs.
A second consideration would be to find out if anyone else is looking at the same, or a similar, problem. We could determine what, if anything, they have learned to date, determine if we can be of help to each other, and perhaps pool resources to broaden the prospects of ideas and solutions.
In-house efforts can quickly bring solutions to common problems, that are frequently dealt with which minimizes effort in coming to a successful solution. Parker explains that sometimes solutions can be found simply by restating the problem, so by examining other problems/solutions with a view toward solving current problems, a solution from previous events, can potentially be redesigned to fit an existing event.
When causes of particular problems have been identified, the problem solving process can be directed in several directions, but we concern ourselves with elimination of causes.
2. Alterative Solutions – Before this class when faced with a problem I would usually go with the first solution that seemed to fix the situation. However, establishing specific evaluation criteria is essential when valuing the merits of a potential solution. If a solution does not fit the criteria, it will not be successful. Judging alternatives through the same criteria allows you to produces the optimal solution and eliminate awful ones. When facing a strategic problem this process will be fundamental in making a
myself, or seek outside assistance to address certain issues. Overall, this project helped me view
This step includes gathering facts before trying to figure out the solution to the issues or possible future issues. This is a very important step when making important business decision...
Identify and sort out and summarize the problem(s). Decide which is the most important problem.
Often, creativity phase plays critical role in providing good opportunity to familiarize the client with the team work. Moreover, they share potential ideas and proposals to reduce cost; without affecting quality or functionality negatively. Accordingly, there will be a base of ranked and classified ideas and views.
In the third phase, problem focus, “Pool states a problem is not necessarily something negative, it is only the difference between what is and what is desire...
Like any other type of process, there are steps to problem solving. These stages may be broken down into four basic steps with occasional subcategories to specify. Step one being to identify the problem, being able to recognize the problem is the
In the analysis phase, the designer will determine and define the instructional problem to be solved and
Solving problems is a particular art, like swimming, or skiing, or playing the piano: you can learn it only by imitation and practice…if you wish to learn swimming you have to go in the water, and if you wish to become a problem solver you have to solve problems. -Mathematical Discovery
Make the decision through the integration of ideas and data, and negotiation and prioritization of ideas
When an organization is looking for new creative ideas, they should ask their employees. The employees of the organization have an in depth look and are more understanding to the needs of the organization because it is where they work and are involved. Managers can call on a group of employees and together, they can come up with solutions for the organization. “Group decision making is a type of participatory process in which multiple individuals acting collectively, analyze problems or situations, consider and evaluate alternative courses of action, and select from among the alternatives a solution or solutions” (Group Decision Making, n.d.,para.1).
Problem-solution organization refers to the process of identifying a problem, analyzing it, coming up with a variety of possible viable solutions and finally choosing the best. Many organizations use either two or three organizational approach in problem solution organization. In two organizational format a problem as well as respective solution is outlined. In three organizational formats the problem, available solutions and the ideal solution are outlined. The problem-solution format is preferable for policy presentations in most organizations.
Taylor, J. and Ortega, D. The Application of Goldratt's Thinking Processes to problem Solving. Allied Academic international Conference. Las Vegas. 2003
Problem-solving help the students to create their own representation or illustration (De Corte, Vrerschaffel, De Win 1985; Hegarty, Mayer, Monk, 1995; Pape, 2003) based on how they interpret or understand the given problem (Pape, 2003; Van der Schoot, Bakker Arkema, Horsley, Van Lieshout, 2009). Problem-solving also tests their critical thinking skills on how they look for another strategy or ways to solve the problem easier. Problem-solving helps the problem solver to develop characteristics of a good problem solver which includes open-mindedness, optimistic, persistent, not afraid to commit mistakes and systematic person since he is following a certain step in solving the
McShane, Steven, and Mary Ann Von Glinow. Chapter 8: Decision Making and Creativity. PRIMIS MNO 6202: Managing Organizations. 2004. The 'Secondary' of the 'Secondary' of the 'Secondary' of the 'Secondary' of the 'Secondary' Reprint of the book.