1. Define the problem.
This is an objective assessment of the problem. Try not to bring in your reactions of the problem. Simply focus on what it is and why it might be present. You can do this by asking yourself the following questions:
2. Look at potential causes for the problem
3. Identify alternatives for approaches to resolve the problem
4. Select an approach to resolve the problem by considering the following questions;
5. Plan for taking action on your chosen approach
6. Monitor implementation of the plan
7. Verify if the problem has been resolved or not
This is an objective assessment of the problem. Try not to bring in your reactions of the problem. Simply focus on what it is and why it might be present. You can do this by asking yourself the following questions:
- What is making this a problem? What is the evidence?
- Where, how, why, and when is the problem occurring?
- Is there anyone besides you involved in the problem?
- What is your role in the problem?
2. Look at potential causes for the problem
- Talk to other people to get a different perspective on the problem.
- Write down what you learn from others and compare that with your own opinions about the problem.
- Write down the what, where, when, how, why, and with whom of the problem.
3. Identify alternatives for approaches to resolve the problem
- Brainstorm for solutions to the problem with trusted friends, family or colleagues.
- There are no dumb or invalid ideas at this stage of the problem solving process.
- Write down everything that is mentioned or that you think of.
4. Select an approach to resolve the problem by considering the following questions;
- Which of the previously brainstormed approaches will provide the solution for the long term?
- Which approach is the most realistic? Do I have the resources, how much money would it cost, and do I have the time to do it?
- Are there any risks associated with the approaches and can I live this those risks if things don't work out?
5. Plan for taking action on your chosen approach
- Ask yourself, "What will it look like when this problem no longer exists?"
- What are the steps I need to take to get there? Remember to create these using the SMART goal method.
- How will I know if the steps are working and when to change course?
- What resources will I need? Time, money, environment, and people?
6. Monitor implementation of the plan
- Am I seeing change where I want to see it?
- Is my timeline realistic?
7. Verify if the problem has been resolved or not
- How can I avoid this problem in the future?
- What did I learn by working through this problem-solving process?