PROBLEM SOLVING
A problem is the difference or gap between the existing state and the desired state. When the gap is significant and pronounced the problem is eminent otherwise it is irrelevant.
- Problem solving is the process of making certain decision to solve the problem.
- Decision making is meant for 3 reasons, to achieve certain objectives, to exploit certain opportunities, and to mitigate certain threats or problems. Problem solving is the third aspect of decision making.
- When problem is rightly identified, half of the problem is supposed to be solved.
TYPES OF PROBLEM
Followings are the various types of problem.
a) Routine and non-routine
Routine problems are problems that are occurring routinely or frequently and there are some previously designed standard procedures to solve them. Non-routine problems are new, unique, and unusual problems that never have occurred in the past and there are no ready made standard procedures to solve them. Solutions to them are yet to be designed.
b) Urgent and non-urgent
Urgent problems are those problems that can not wait long to be solved, i.e. that need to be solved as soon as possible. Non-urgent problems are those problems that can wait for some time.
c) Total impact and partial impact
Total impact problems affect the whole organization and the top level managers are responsible to solve them. Partial impact problems affect only a particular department or unit not the whole organization and middle/lower level managers are responsible to solve them.
d) Technical and human
Technical problems basically emerge due to technical faults/reasons like machine, tools, equipment, etc. Human problems emanate from human faults/negligence/reasons, like carelessness, lack of motivation, ego, stress, conflict, etc.
PROBLEM SOLVING STRATEGIES
Followings are some problem solving strategies.
a) Appeal to the supernatural
Supernatural power like Gods, priests or holy men are referred to solve the problems.
b) Appeal to worldly authority
Worldly authorities like Kings or wise persons are referred to solve the problems.
c) Intuition
One’s intuition or capacity to sense the future occurrences is used to solve the problem.
d) Common sense
Common sense is used to solve the problem. Common sense is the sense that common men possess.
e) Precedence
How similar problems were solved will be taken as precedence to solve the current problem.
f) For repetitive problems
Standard operating procedures (SOP) may be laid down to solve frequently occurring problem.
g) Problem solving team, brainstorming, Delphi technique etc
A problem solving team may be formed to solve the problem.