What is problem-solving?

Different Problem Solving Methods

→ Problem-solving is identifying a problem, understanding its root causes, and finding effective solutions to conquer it.

→ These methods are used to solve the problem.

→ A Problem is an undesirable event.

→ In other words, "Any Gap between what is expected and what is obtained".

→ Any effort to reduce this gap between what is expected and what is obtained is called "Problem-Solving".

Table of Contents:

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Key Steps for Problem Solving:

→ Effective problem-solving techniques require critical thinking and creativity.

→ Sometimes collaborating with team members to develop the best possible solution.

→ It requires the discipline and skills.

⏩Key Steps for Problem-Solving are:

  1. Identifying the Issue
  2. Analyzing the Issue
  3. Generating Possible Solutions
  4. Evaluating and Selecting the Best Solution
  5. Implementing the Solution
  6. Monitoring and Reviewing


01. Identifying the Issue:

→ Identifying the issue is the first and the most crucial step.

→ So we need to define the issues clearly and concisely.

→ A well-identified problem is considered as half a problem solved itself.

→ We can identify issues through the symptoms, such as declining performance, unexpected outcomes, or defect generation.


02. Analyzing the Issue:

→ Analyzing an issue is the process of understanding its nature.

→ Analyzing the issue is more about gathering relevant information, and understanding the context.

→ In this step we need to find out the root causes and their impact.

→ Deep analysis creates the foundation for meaningful solutions.


03. Generating Possible Solutions:

→ Generating possible solutions is the third step.

→ In this step we need to brainstorm and develop various strategies to address the issue.

→ The goal is to identify the best possible solution.

→ This step encourages open-minded thinking where all ideas are considered as a part of the solution.


04. Evaluating and Selecting the Best Solution:

→ The next step is to evaluate and select the best solution.

→ In this step we need to select the best solution after validation of all possible solutions.

→ In this phase, we must select the best solution based on various parameters such as feasibility, cost, impact, and risk.

→ Finally based on feasibility we need to select the practical and effective solution.

→ After assessing the pros and cons of each potential solution.

→ Also we need to consider the potential consequences.


05. Implementing the Solution:

→ Implementing the solution is putting the chosen solution into action.

→ Successful implementation requires careful planning, clear communication, and effective execution.

→ This way we can ensure that the solution is successfully integrated and provides the expected outcomes.

→ This phase is critical because even the best solution can fail if not executed properly.


06. Monitoring and Reviewing:

→ Monitoring and reviewing are the last phases of the problem-solving techniques after the solution implementation.

→ In this step we need to ensure that the implemented solution working as intended resulting us the desired output.

→ We need to track the performance and also identify if any issues occur.

→ Based on the review we need to identify if the problem is resolved completely or not.


Goals of Problem Solving:

→ While we are addressing the problem we need to set clear goals.

→ Setting clear goals helps us to provide direction and motivation to employees.

→ The example of a goal is if we are hungry then our goal is to eat something.

→ The main goal is subdivided into many sub-goals to achieve the main target.

⏩The Goals are:

  • Identify the root cause
  • Develop effective solutions
  • Enhance decision-making
  • Increase efficiency
  • Improve stakeholder satisfaction
  • Promote continuous improvement
  • Facilitate collaboration
  • Build resilience
  • Share learning with the team


Barriers to Problem Solving:

→ The barrier prevents the achievement of the goal.

→ Let's take one example to understand the barrier.

→ In the previous example our goal is to eat something but we have no food at home so this is a barrier for us.

→ To remove this barrier either we need to order food or go to the shop or market to purchase some food hence this is solved.

⏩Different Barriers are:

  • Lack of clear understanding
  • Resistance to change
  • Limited resources
  • Insufficient data
  • Poor communication
  • Organizational culture
  • The complexity of the problem
  • Short-term focus
  • Fear of failure
  • Conflicting priorities


Different Problem-Solving Skills:

→ Problem-solving skills are essential for effective implementation of the solution.

⏩Key Problem-Solving Skills are:

  • Analytical thinking
  • Critical Thinking
  • Creativity
  • Research skills
  • Decision-making ability
  • Communication skills
  • Collaboration and teamwork
  • Adaptability
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Time management
  • Negotiation skills
  • Persistence and resilience
  • Systems thinking
  • Technical skills
  • Risk management
  • Active listening

Different Types of Problem-Solving:

→ Problem-solving is a process that involves identifying an issue, finding the root cause, and implementing its solutions.

→ There are different types of approaches available based on the problem's nature.

→ Different techniques are used for different scenarios.

→ Sometimes a combination of these techniques can be applied to solve complex issues.

⏩Most Common Types of Problem-Solving are:

  • Analytical
  • Creative
  • Critical Thinking
  • Lateral Thinking
  • Collaborative
  • Trial and Error
  • Root Cause Analysis
  • Algorithmic
  • Scientific
  • Decision-Making

Different Problem-Solving Methods:

→ Problem-solving Methods are structured approaches to identify issues, find out the root cause, and implement solutions.

⏩The Most Commonly Used Problem-Solving Methods are:

  1. PDCA Cycle
  2. DMAIC Methodology
  3. 8D Methodology
  4. A3 Methodology

01. PDCA Cycle:

→ The PDCA Cycle, also known as the Deming Cycle, Deming Wheel, or Plan-Do-Check-Act Cycle.

→ It is also known as a continuous improvement methodology.

→ While PDSA (plan–do–study–act) is called the Shewhart Cycle.

→ This method is extensively applied in quality management, project management, and manufacturing processes.

→ The PDCA cycle promotes a culture of quality management.

→ PDCA is a repetitive four-stage model for Continuous Improvement.

PDCA Cycle Presentation

 
 
 

⏩Four Steps of the PDCA Cycle:

P: Plan - Make a plan for improvement - (Identify the issue or area for improvement)

D: Do - Carry out the plan - (Implement the plan on a small scale to test its effectiveness)

C: Check - Summarize the result - (Analyze the results of the implementation to determine whether the plan achieved the desired outcomes)

A: Act - Determine what changes are to be made - (Decide whether to adopt the solution or repeat the cycle)


⏩Key Benefits of the PDCA Cycle:

  • Continuous improvement
  • Scalable solution
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Reduces risk
  • Increases efficiency
  • Adaptable and flexible

⏩Example of PDCA Cycle:

→ Now we will take an example of the manufacturing process.

→ In manufacturing, the PDCA cycle can be used to optimize production lines.

→ So in the planning phase, we can start with identifying the bottlenecks in production.

→ After that in the do phase, we can implement the solution in the pilot area.

→ Then in the check phase, we can measure the performance.

→ The final stage is the act phase, in this phase, we need to roll out the improvements across the entire factory.

→ This will improve the efficiency of the manufacturing process and prevent defects.

→ The PDCA cycle is a very simple and effective method.

👉 Read our detailed article on the PDCA Cycle Explained With Case Study


02. DMAIC Methodology:

→ DMAIC is a systematic problem-solving methodology.

→ This method is commonly used in Lean Six Sigma projects.

→ DMAIC methodology is mostly used in process and quality improvement.

→ It is a data-driven method.

→ It helps businesses to enhance efficiency, reduce defects, and eliminate waste.

→ The acronym DMAIC stands for Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control.

→ It is an integral part of a Six Sigma Initiative.


⏩Five Steps of DMAIC Methodology:

D: Define - Clearly define the issue, scope, goals, and deliverables of the project.

M: Measure - Quantify the current performance and gather data to establish a baseline for future comparison.

A: Analyse - Identify the root cause of the problem using data analysis techniques.

I: Improve - Develop and implement solutions to address the root causes and improve the process.

C: Control - Sustain the improvements by monitoring the process and ensuring that the changes are maintained over time.


⏩Key Benefits of DMAIC Methodology:

  • Structured and systematic
  • Data-driven decision making
  • Focus on the root cause
  • Cost and waste reduction
  • Customer-centric
  • Continuous improvement

⏩Application of DMAIC Methodology:

→ DMAIC is broadly used across different industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, logistics, and many more.

→ This method is applied to improve quality, reduce defects, streamline processes, and enhance operational performance.

→ For example, in a manufacturing process, DMAIC can be used to reduce defects.

→ While in healthcare, it could be applied to streamline patient admission procedures and reduce wait times.

→ DMAIC is a robust methodology that helps organizations solve complex problems systematically


03. 8D Methodology:

→ The 8D Methodology is also known as Eight Disciplines Problem Solving.

→ It is a systematic approach to solving complex problems.

→ This methodology is widely used in the manufacturing and engineering industry.

→ 8D was initially developed by Ford Motor Company and used by all its suppliers.

→ Nowadays this method is widely used in many industries apart from manufacturing.

→ This is integral to addressing product and process non-conformities, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective and preventive actions.

→ The 8D process is popular in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing.

8D Problem Solving Presentation

 
 
 

⏩Eight Steps of the 8D Methodology:

  1. D1: Create a team
  2. D2: Define the problem
  3. D3: Define interim containment actions
  4. D4: Identify root cause analysis
  5. D5: Define the permanent corrective actions
  6. D6: Implement permanent corrective actions
  7. D7: Prevent recurrence
  8. D8: Congratulate the team

⏩Application of 8D Methodology:

→ The 8D Methodology can be applied across various industries to systematically solve problems.

→ It also improves product quality and process.

⏩8D Used in Different Industries such as:

  • Manufacturing
  • Defense
  • Automotive
  • Engineering
  • Electronics
  • Consumer Goods
  • Pharmaceutical, etc.

→ Now we will take one example of the manufacturing industry for better understanding.

→ A car manufacturer identifies an issue with airbags malfunction.

→ The 8D method is used to determine the root cause of the malfunction.

→ Then implement corrective actions and prevent future occurrences.

→ This way the car manufacturer avoids a recall and improves overall vehicle safety.


⏩Key Benefits of 8D Methodology:

  • Systematic problem solving
  • Focus on root cause elimination
  • Improved team collaboration
  • Enhanced documentation
  • Improved product quality and reliability


04. A3 Methodology:

→ The A3 Methodology is a structured approach developed by Toyota.

→ This method is a part of the lean management system.

→ It is named after the A3-sized paper that is used to document the issue-resolving process.

→ The A3 methodology is a systematic, concise, and visual way of presenting problems, root cause analysis, and solutions.

→ This method is focused on continuous improvement.

→ Eight Steps of the A3 Methodology are mentioned below.


⏩Key Components of the A3 Methodology:

Step 1: Clarify the Issue - To give a clear understanding of the situation and explain why action is necessary.

Step 2: Break Down the Issue - To clearly define the problem and set a baseline for improvement.

Step 3: Set the Target - To define the problem targets in a way that everyone understands and agrees upon.

Step 4: Analyze the Root Cause - To get to the core reason behind the issue, rather than addressing surface-level symptoms.

Step 5: Develop countermeasure - To propose specific, actionable, and realistic solutions to resolve the problem.

Step 6: See Countermeasure - To ensure the proposed countermeasures are implemented in a structured and timely manner.

Step 7: Evaluate Results & Processes - To confirm that the problem has been resolved and that the solution has achieved the desired results.

Step 8: Standardize Success - To foster continuous improvement and ensure that knowledge gained from solving this problem can be applied elsewhere.


⏩Application of A3 Methodology:

→ The A3 Methodology can be applied in a wide range of industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, service, and industries, etc.

→ The A3 Methodology is a powerful tool.

→ It promotes a disciplined lean approach.

→ That makes it an integral part of lean management systems worldwide.

⏩This method is particularly useful for:

  • Process improvement
  • Quality improvement
  • Project management

⏩Benefits of the A3 Methodology:

  • Structured Problem Solving
  • Clear Communication
  • Focus on Root Causes
  • Engages Teamwork
  • Supports Continuous Improvement

Comparison of Various Methods:

→ Different methods can be compared based on different parameters.

→ There are many methods available for solving problems.

→ Here we have learned about the most famous methods such as PDCA, DMAIC, 8D, and A3.

⏩We will compare different methods based on below parameters:

  • Focus
  • Key Strengths
  • Best Usecase
  • Industry Application

→ Refer to the below-mentioned detailed comparison table.

Problem-solving Methods By Different Parameters

⏩Summary of Key Differences:

PDCA: This is most useful in improvements and testing small changes before full-scale implementation.

DMAIC: Suitable for detailed data analysis, reducing defects and variability in processes. It emphasizes control and measurement.

8D: Best for solving complex problems that require a team and immediate containment actions. Strong method for defect prevention.

A3: Useful for lean implementation and continuous improvement.

Comparison Of Different Problem Solving Methods

Benefits of Problem-Solving Methods:

  • Promotes teamwork and collaboration
  • Encourages accountability
  • Improves customer satisfaction
  • Simplifies complex problems
  • Supports long-term sustainability
  • Cost reduction


Conclusion:

→ Various problem-solving methods offer structured frameworks.

→ Different methods are used for different challenges.

→ Each methodology has unique features.

→ All methods have common goals such as: resolving issues efficiently, preventing recurrence, and improving processes or products.

→ The selection of the method depends on the nature of the issue.

→ Cross-functional team required for data analysis during problem-solving.

→ That will lead to achieving the business's long-term goal.

→ Organizations may use a combination of these methodologies and this way businesses can achieve sustainable growth.

50 تعليقات

  1. Great article. I would add a 5th type of solution as it is a key element of reducing the impact of the issue - that being containment. Whilst it is by no means the long term solution but may take the form of short-term interim solutions with a minimum additional spend or resource required - such as a quality wall or reinspection and rework of potentially affected items.

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  2. Please add 3L5Y tool which is also majorly used for problem resolution .

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    1. Thanks for your suggestion we will do needful.

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    2. 3L5Y helps in deep 5why analysis: specific - detection - systemic [noeradjip@gmail.com]

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  3. Great page!, please add 3L5Y tool. actualy is majorly used in manufacturing process

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  4. Nicely explained. Easy to understand

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  5. Very useful and well explained information, only one detail, is Deming Cycle like
    his creator William Edwards Deming.
    I love your site!

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  6. Great post. Its very important for learning.

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  7. Hi Nikunj,
    Where do you get these Materials please? Really these are easy to understand and you are doing a great job.hatsoff to you.

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  8. Hi Nikunj
    Where do you get these materials please ? These are easy to understand, you are doing really great job. Keep it up.

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  9. Any chance to provide your pdf google cloud library?

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    1. As of now we are working on that we will share further details

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  10. Dear Sir,

    It is great work you are doing especially for young Engineers, who strive to have strong industrial foundation in the beginning.

    Also, this is helping in great extent for individuals who strive to train their down the line team.

    This is great initiative from your side in line with "Atmanirbar".

    Wishing you and your entire Team Happy New Year, young India expects further more from you.

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    1. Thank you very mech for your kind words for us. This energy motivates to our team.
      Once again thank you very much for your time and sharing valuable feedback!!!

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  11. This is very helpful information, through this our industrial knowledge is increasing and specially for who loves to provide precised output for customer satisfaction.

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  12. Very Good work Nikunj, keep it up. Very helpful and simple presentations

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  13. Thanks so much for your sharing and it is valuable to us much more. We show our gratitude if you have pdf file and can share. We just want to save in computer and read your meaning lessons. Thank you

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  14. Very useful information

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  15. PDCA is also called Deming Cycle - not Daming Cycle as mentioned above, please correct it - improvement model was first introduced to Dr. Deming by his mentor, Walter Shewhart of the famous Bell Laboratories in New York

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    1. Thank you very much for your observation and improve our content. We have updated the same.

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  16. What great article for businesses

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  17. Thank you, great article!

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  18. There are some similarities between 3A vs 8D, could you give me some tips to use 2 these kinds of problem solving 3A vs 8D

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    1. You can go through our article we have explained all things or you can mail us at: contact@nikunjbhoraniya.com

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  19. I love it! Great stuff!!

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  20. I can not adding what's up group.

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    1. You can join from your mobile and open link with whatsapp still you are facing any difficulty then mail us at: contact@nikunjbhoraniya.com

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