Problem Solving

1. Problem Solving J. Salek 05-04-2011

2. What is a problem? Definitions A state of difficulty that needs to be resolved. A problem is an "issue" or obstacle which makes it difficult to achieve a desired goal, objective or purpose. It refers to a situation, condition, or issue that is yet unresolved. Attributes Negative impact Possible to resolve

3. How problem occurs Object Something does not work when it should Something works when it shouldn’t Something works but not as good as expected Something is not present when it should be Something is present when it should not be Personal Someone does not work when one should Someone works when one shouldn’t Someone works but not as good as expected Someone is not present when one should be Someone is present when one should not be Complex Mix of the above

4. The main problem generators Neglect Should do, could do did not do… Procrastination Will do it later… Blame He / she should do it… Excuses I wanted to do it but…

5. Search for a cause Often problems are hidden behind 2-3 questions We see the results and not the causes We learn about a problem from people that do not have full overview Frequently people see indirect problem that is cause by another problem

6. Important questions Is this a problem (can it be solve)? Am I a cause of this problem? Do I want to be a part of solution or a part of problem? What can I do to solve the problem? Whom can I ask to help me with solving the problem? What can I read / learn to solve the problem?

7. Directions There are only a few things that cause the problem, you do not have to search for thousand of things. Once you identify few main causes of problem, spend most of the time on changing them. You can’t solve a problem without changes. Do not try to solve problems without solutions.

8. Level of details L. Amstrong about his Moon travel: “We had only 2 problems to solve. First - how to land safely on the Moon. Second – how to return safely back to Earth. We also knew that both problems must be solved before we will go.”

9. Examples I have fix budget project that should be deliver within 3 days. Responsible developer comes and inform me that we will not be able to deliver as agreed. My plane will leave within 40 minutes and I am stack in the traffic 3 km from the airport. I need to deliver important document via e-mail and connection does not work.