We can all benefit from having good problem solving skills as we all encounter problems on a daily basis; obviously some of these problems are more complex than others. It would be great to solve all problems efficiently and in a timely manner.
All problems require their own unique solutions and approaches, yet while the problems might be diverse, some of the steps we can take to help overcome them can be derived from tried and tested methods.
The latest FYI/ASK resource sheet; entitled "Effective Problem Solving" can be downloaded freely from the FYI Initiative page.
If you have any thoughts, feedback or strategies regarding problem solving techniques that you would like to share then feel free to reply to this topic.
Not a problem. I found it was a good method of keeping things on track during these sessions and working towards a productive outcome.
Your very welcome shanconnor1...
I love the ‘6 Thinking Hat’ analogy, it sounds like a good way of getting views across in a structured manner.
Thanks heaps for your contribution!
Thanks. That was a very useful guide.
I recall working in an organisation where they would hold 'brainstorming' meetings once a month. They would employ something called the '6 Thinking Hat' method. This was essentially six different coloured hats, each one representing a different perspective. Not that we would wear hats, but we would utilise different coloured pieces of card.
White Hat: The neutral White Hat offers objective facts and figures and is used near the beginning of the meeting to establish relevant facts and information about the issue to be discussed.
Red Hat: The emotional and intuitive Red Hat is used to get people’s gut reactions to an idea or when you want the team to express their emotions freely.
Black Hat: The cautious Black Hat is used when you want to get the critical viewpoint of an idea or situation. The “devil’s advocate” hat helps decrease the chances of making a poor decision.
Yellow Hat: The sunny and positive Yellow Hat helps identify the value of ideas and plans. The Yellow Hat helps counterbalance the judgmental thinking of the Black Hat.
Green Hat: The creative Green Hat comes on when you want to generate new ideas and new directions. This is a very powerful hat each player needs to wear.
Blue Hat: The organizing Blue Hat sets objectives, outlines the situation, and defines the problem in the beginning of the meeting and returns at the end to summarize and draw conclusions.