Ways to solve this problem and. The easiest way to solve any life problems! Social problems: ways to resolve

Solving the problem may be easier than you think.

For this you just need systems approach.

W.E. Deming.

General quality management as a special complex method of gradual, organizational and systematic improvement of the entire company is based on the consistent application of certain means and methods for solving problems. Below are the tools used in various stages problem solving cycle.

3.2.1 Problem solving cycle

Sequential problem solving is a nine-step cyclical process. The first two steps in this cycle are related to the need to define the problem itself.

A clear description of the problem is necessary in order to find its real cause and develop its effective solution. And to do this, the problem solving team must know what problems need to be solved, where they arise and what aspects of them are in this case meaning. Several sources of information should be consulted: customer surveys, customer complaints, process performance data; discuss these issues with internal customers. Having collected all the information, you should analyze it, determine the scope of the problem, formulate it as clearly as possible and describe the desired end situation (goals), then discuss all this with those who have the problem under consideration. It is recommended to use affinity diagram, benchmarking, “fish skeleton” diagram, “seven W” and “yes-no” questions and “why-why” diagram in the analysis.

If the problem is ill-defined, the proposed solutions may not be effective. At the same time, a clear formulation allows you to identify its features, determine its consequences, pay attention to the difference between what is and how it should be, and in addition, it involves a general assessment of the problem (how often does it occur, what scale does it take? , etc.). In order to accurately formulate the problem, it is also important to know how the process is currently being carried out. In this regard, it is necessary to build a flowchart of the process indicating all its stages - from the receipt of resources to the output of finished products.

Figure 21. Problem Solving Cycle

Having formulated the problem, it is important to compile a list of likely specific causes of its occurrence, study them and determine the true cause (Figure 21).

The goal of this step is to plot multiple possible causes for a given problem and select the most likely one. Care should be taken to ensure that you have all the data on all key points in the process, determine the most likely causes for further analysis. At this stage, the available data is analyzed using visual methods such as the fishbone diagram, line graph, Pareto diagram, distribution density histogram and scatterplot, which allow you to determine the relationship and identify trends.

The next steps in the problem solving cycle are to develop several solutions, choose the one that will eliminate the cause of the problem, and implement it. The purpose of this phase is to develop possible solutions to address the root cause of the problem and thereby increase customer satisfaction. Using the data obtained in the previous step, you should brainstorm and draw up a detailed list of possible solutions. You need to evaluate them and choose the optimal one - what gives the greatest chance of success and is best suited in given circumstances, carefully plan your actions within the framework of the proposed solution, take into account all possible consequences and then ensure its implementation. It is necessary to bring information about the chosen solution to all interested parties, explain all existing plans, develop procedures, identify potential obstacles to their implementation, take into account all necessary resources(raw materials, materials, equipment, buildings, human resources), as well as identify training needs.

The purpose of the last step in the problem resolution cycle is to make sure that the problem has indeed gone away. At this stage, measurements are taken and it is found out whether the problem has been finally solved or whether it has only decreased in scale. It also determines whether customer requirements are met. If it turns out that you were not able to meet their requirements, this may mean that you have chosen the wrong solution, or the problem has been formulated incorrectly and its cause has not been correctly identified. There are several ways to evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented solution. If a this decision eliminate or reduce the problem, the process needs to be standardized: the relevant procedures need to be clearly regulated and documented, and their description included in the list of standard procedures. Care must also be taken to ensure that all employees of the organization concerned understand and use these procedures in the same way. The purpose of this standardization is to integrate the new process into daily activities and prevent the organization from reverting to old ways of working.

Ecology of life Life hack: Sometimes the success of a business lies not in what answers we find to the questions posed, but in what questions we ask.

Sometimes the success of a business lies not in the answers we find to the questions posed, but in the questions we ask. Almost every creative session that I participated in, for the most part, consisted of well-chosen and structured questions. Not for nothing, we called such a list of questions "Key". The beauty was that everyone answered them in their own way and gave a unique result. When a large group of people gathered, their answers most likely not only solved the problem, but also offered many solutions to choose from, even in cases where it seemed that there was no solution at all.

The benefit of interrogative sentences is that our brain is designed in such a way that it cannot stop thinking. He is always busy with his work, and is always in a state of searching for answers. Any question forces him to find the answer. In this article, I offer a list of 10 ways that will surely help you ask the right questions in any situation.

1. Questions about the problem itself.

Most the right way Problem solving is about asking questions about the problem itself. The beauty is that the brain itself will generate answers, you just need to try to ask the most versatile questions. In addition, after a series of questions, even if you do not find the answer right away, then do not be discouraged. Your brain continues to work on finding a solution already in the background!

2. Questions in a different formulation.

A lot depends on the packaging. Whatever question you solve is the answer you get. Play with the wording of your problem, how can it be formulated differently? Surely the problem can be solved in several ways, what will be the question for each satisfactory solution to the problem? Check if the wording of the question is correct.

3. Issues in time.

Focus on time frames. If the question is specific, expand it; if it is too broad, narrow it down. For example: "How can I improve my life?" or "How can I improve my life this month" or "What can I do today to improve my life?"

4. Questions in other directions.

The search for a solution cannot proceed in one direction. It could also be a change of direction. From geographical: "Where else can we find the thing we need?" to the mental: "Now let's forget about the disadvantages, what advantages do you see?".

5. Issues for improving education.

Every teacher knows that the most effective student is the one who wants to learn. In this case, questions are a great way to stimulate creative thinking and work much better than just giving the right answer.

Instead of just an explanation, it is better to simply ask the question: "What do you think would happen in this case if we changed our actions ...", "What result will we get if we do not take into account the costs at the initial stage .."

The same type of questions works great not only at an institute or school, but also in a business environment. The habit of answering the question of a subordinate "What about in this case?" answer the question "What do you think should be done?" - saves not only time, but also teaches the employee to think independently.

6. Questions to keep the conversation going.

Questions are great for connecting people. If you are asking questions, then you are almost certainly listening to what is being said to you. A good question can not only enliven the conversation, but also involve new participants in it.

Recently, dialogues are increasingly turning into monologues in turn. Instead of listening to each other, each side now and then waits for its turn to talk. Simple questions "How can I help?", and "Have you experienced something like this before?" - a great way to show that you are listening to the interlocutor and participate yourself in HIS conversation.

7. Questions for critical thinking.

We often talk about completely different things. It's a shame to spend a lot of time and find out that the other person meant something completely different from what we thought, and he did not fully understand us. To prevent this from happening, you need not be afraid to ask simple questions, which, moreover, may seem naive.

As effective initial questions, you can use the "Kipling Technique": "Who exactly did this?", "Why did they do it", "Did I understand you correctly, you say that ..."

8. Questions to shift attention.

Changing your point of view is easier said than done. If we are sure of something as an absolute, then it is very difficult to question this absolute. Try to shift your attention away from the obvious. If someone says "It's impossible", it's better to ask "How can we make it possible?" or "Under what conditions will it work?" etc.

9. Questions for introspection.

This can be a powerful tool for finding answers about the meaning of one's own life. A great place to start is with the "100 Questions" technique, which consists of only questions that are important to you at the moment. Then you can narrow this list down to the 20 most important and return to them periodically.

10. Interrogation as a way of life.

Developing the habit of asking yourself questions can be very, very helpful. I believe that questions are the most basic way to develop and stimulate our brain activity. But how to make it a habit, a skill - to ask yourself versatile questions? Like everything in this life - with practice. Carry a notepad and pen with you, or write down incoming questions on your phone.

Learn to be comfortable with unresolved issues and learn how to solve them. Play with them and your quality of life will surely improve. published

Some people seem very talented to others, capable of resolving the most difficult difficulties. But these outstanding practitioners often share one trait - unconscious competence. Even without knowing the answers to questions, they know where to find them. You can learn from these people the right approach to problem solving. After all, if magic wand have not yet been invented to resolve difficulties, then all kinds of methods and techniques allow each person to answer questions that are relevant to themselves.

Difficulty analysis

Many problem-solving methods are based on a four-step process:

• First you need to determine what the problem is. What is its real reason? How did it become clear that it actually exists?
• After that, possible options for resolving this difficulty are selected. Write down any ideas that come to mind.
• The next stage is a preliminary assessment of the options, and then the choice of the most suitable one. What is the best strategy for this particular difficulty? And which one is the easiest to implement? Perhaps some strategies require additional resources - finance, health, or connections with people who are not yet there. And therefore it is worth dwelling on those methods that are available.
• The final stage is the implementation of the chosen option. At the end of this stage, the question of whether the selected strategy was successful should be answered. This will help to correct the actions in case of new problems similar to the previous one.

This method of analysis in problem solving is the basis for resolving various difficulties. Based on them, you can make all kinds of variations, adapted to the individual characteristics of a person.

Social problems: ways to resolve

The term "social problem" refers to such difficulties as unemployment, social stratification, high morbidity and mortality among the population. Methods for solving social problems, first of all, consist in the adoption of certain decisions by the government. They are expressed in legislative acts ruling authorities, carrying out all kinds of activities aimed at solving the problem, as well as using modern Internet opportunities. They allow you to state openly that there is a certain problem. And Internet users express their opinion on a particular issue and offer various alternative options for resolving them.

Management issues

In the process of developing and adopting an organizational strategy, the decision maker can use various methods solving management problems. Let's consider some of them.

• Biphasic survey. Allows you to identify the main factors that affect the current situation, by means of individual work experts.
• Allows you to get data on the analytical dependence, which reflects the level of influence of certain factors and their indicators on the current situation. Mostly such data is obtained from statistical analysis.
• Economic evaluation. Allows you to draw a conclusion about the financial condition of the organization. It is applied in the conditions of availability of accounting reports. Typical financial model based on determining the break-even point of the enterprise.
• Method of control questions. This method of solving problems in an organization involves leading to answers using leading questions. They can be used both in the process of individual work and in a group discussion of the existing difficulty.

Ways to solve problems in the educational process

Problem posing is one of the main ways of learning. This approach allows students to turn on the thought process, recall previous experience and knowledge related to the current difficulty in the lesson.

One of the main methods of solving a learning problem is in an inciting dialogue that allows students to put forward hypotheses. As a rule, the motivation is carried out by the teacher using the standard phrase: “What are the hypotheses about this?” This question provokes the nomination of absolutely any assumptions - both incorrect and decisive, correct.

In the event that the class is silent, or students put forward only erroneous hypotheses, the teacher should give a hint to the decisive version. Such a hint is thought out by the teacher in advance in preparation for the lesson. For oral verification, another standard phrase is used: “Do you agree with this hypothesis or not? Why?"

Difficulty update

Problem solving is a teaching method that allows students to concentrate most deeply on the topic of the lesson. Another way to do this is to actualize a certain difficulty. For example, the teacher asks the class to define the term "atmospheric pressure". Then he asks other questions. For example, why over different parts of the earth's surface its indicators may be different. The answer is written in chalk on the blackboard. During the lesson, the teacher also draws various diagrams that allow you to further focus the attention of students on a particular difficulty.

Creative principles in problem solving

The creative thinking process emphasizes the following key points in problem solving:

• The need to separate the formation of new ideas and their subsequent evaluation. When brainstorming takes place, sufficient time should be taken to capture all new ideas. Possible strategies for overcoming obstacles should be formulated as much as possible. They should not be evaluated until the brainstorming session is complete.
• Problems should be reformulated into clear and concise questions. Encourage yourself, another person or group to find creative solutions will be much easier if the difficulty comes in the form of a specific question that suggests an unusual answer.
• Using the words "yes, and" will go a long way in developing new idea. One of the main rules of improvisation is that every creative idea can be quickly ruined by the word "but ..." ("This option is good, but ..."). This short lexical item should be avoided at all costs. Instead, it is worth supplementing a possible solution to the problem with the words “yes, and ...”.

These principles can be applied both in individual problem solving and during brainstorming. The best way to start generating new ideas is by asking interesting questions and building on the prerequisites that you already have. And it will be possible to start judgments and assessments later - when the assault is completed.

Formulate the difficulty in reverse

One of the most popular methods of creative problem solving. In the process of applying this approach, any positive statement must be changed to a negative one. For example, if you're having trouble coming up with new ideas in customer service, you can imagine the worst possible customer experience. This will help to distract from the standard approaches, and unexpected turns of perspective can be very successful. Technique allows you to automatically refuse criticism, helps to see combinations of ideas that were not noticed until that time.

Arbitrary choice of words

If the standard methods of analysis and problem solving do not help, you can resort to the most unusual and creative ways. Meaning this method consists in a completely random choice of a combination of words. The easiest way to do this is by simply looking through a magazine, book, or newspaper. It is necessary to open any page, and then randomly move your finger until the moment when there is a desire to stop. If the finger stops at a picture or photograph, you should use the name of the fragment. For example, the picture shows a man, and the finger stopped on his hat. In this case, the word "hat" is used.

This technique is suitable for independent work, and for finding solutions in a group. It allows you to build a completely new associative array within a few minutes, which will either lead to new ideas or show non-standard directions for the creative process.

Psychological problem solving methods: using experience

The history of the resolution of difficulties in psychology provides a large number of all sorts of ideas that can be very useful in the present practice.

Back in 1911, E. Thorndike watched how cats tried to get out of the cage in which the researcher placed them. Based on the experiment, the scientist made a curious conclusion: if success in solving a problem was achieved by trial and error, then the next time a similar problem occurs, the probability of using exactly the strategy that was successful the previous time is much greater. Thorndike called this phenomenon the law of effect. could well be used as effective method problem solving. On the basis of Thorndike's research, the following conclusion can be drawn: the experience of the past helps to shed light on the present difficulty.

Gestalt Psychologists Idea: Reproductive Thinking

The ideas put forward by Thorndike were developed by his followers. Many of these scientists were proponents of Gestalt therapy. They argued that many complexities could be solved with the help of such a method as reproductive thinking. The meaning of this approach lies in the fact that the repeated reproduction of experience from the past provides significant assistance in resolving the current problem.

Productivity Obstacles

Gestalt psychologists use this approach, which involves a detailed consideration of obstacles to resolve difficulties. The two main obstacles are as follows.

• Obsession. A person who in the past was stuck on a certain strategy of behavior cannot realize that in the current situation today this method does not work at all. He is so obsessed with a certain strategy that he does not notice the lack of effectiveness of his actions.
• Not using alternative methods. This is cognitive distortion similar to the previous one. Psychologists call it functional fixity. For example, a person has a ruler, but he needs to cut off an even piece of paper. He fixes on only one way to use the ruler, forgetting that it can not only measure objects, but also smooth the surface of the paper. Then it will be much easier to tear off a flat sheet.

From this we can draw the following conclusion: the best method of solving problems is non-standard solutions. The standard in this case refers to the experience that a person clings to. And also it can be preconceived ideas about their capabilities, or about using a certain tool.

The use of these methods will allow solving the most difficult difficulties in various fields. And methods aimed at activating creative thinking will encourage you to create your own approaches to solve difficulties.

Problem types

His classification of the types of problems that people usually face, according to Francis (Francis, 1990):

1. Mystery- the inexplicability of the deviation from the expected result, the emphasis is on the lack of explanation of what happened, the ambiguity of the reason due to which the expectations were not met.

2. Task Assignment- the problem arises when the task is given to the individual by another person, when there is a kind of agreement between the boss and the subordinate. The contractual relationship must be clear, understandable, achievable and agreed upon.

3. Difficulty- the problem arises when something is difficult to achieve due to ignorance of how to manage the current situation, or lack of resources.

4. Possibility- a situation that promises a potential benefit.

5. Puzzle It is not clear which answer is correct and which is wrong. To arrive at a correct answer, confusion and uncertainty must be resolved. Some puzzles may never be solved.

6. Dilemma- there are at least two options for action, they are both approximately equally attractive or unattractive, and it takes prudence to choose the more correct one.

Certain stages in the solution process, depending on the type of problem, become a priority.

Problem Solving Steps

The difference between a good manager and a bad one is how capable they are of taking a systematic approach to problem solving. Wilson (1993) provides a comparison between various previously developed decision models. All models are based on the need to identify and explain the problem, using the right hemisphere of the brain to accumulate information and ideas. Then comes a more narrowly focused reflection phase to analyze the data collected and determine the direction for further action. Wilson noticed that each culture requires a different amount of time at different stages of problem solving. In the East, for example in Japan, it takes much longer to generate creative ideas than in Western cultures, where the decision comes much faster, but the time to implement ideas is spent more. In most models, the emphasis is on the following key stages:

1. Analysis of the problem - at this stage, information is collected to determine the reality of the existence of the problem and the reasons for its occurrence, and its importance is also assessed.

2. Goal setting and definition of success criteria - here you need to have a clear idea of ​​​​the goal and how and with what indicators success in achieving it will be assessed.

3. Accumulation of information - At this stage, it is required to collect data and put forward ideas, from which it will then be possible to select options and evaluate their comparative usefulness.

4. Decision making - after evaluation, a decision is made in favor of the best course of action.

5. Implementation, implementation - everything that needs to be done is planned, and the action plan is being implemented.

6. Review of progress made - an assessment is given of what went well, what went less well, and comments are made for the future (this is an extremely important stage that is often omitted).

Problem Solving Methods

There are many techniques for successful problem solving. Many of them include an assessment of the situation and an analysis of the importance of the results obtained. Four key questions are asked:

1. Why is the issue important?
2. How important is the result of solving the problem compared to other things that also require attention?
3. Who will be involved in solving the problem?
4. What are the real pressures and constraints to face?

Brainstorming, fishbones, Pareto charts, and histograms are all information gathering or analysis methods.

brainstorming technology was developed by Alex Osborn in the 1950s. to stimulate creativity in generating ideas. The idea should be stated freely and immediately recorded in the table. People should feel free to act and develop ideas. The discussion does not take place until the stage of evaluating these ideas has begun.

Fishbone technology was developed by Ishikawa and is widely used in problem solving in the quality management process. This technique helps in understanding the relationship between cause and effect.

Pareto charts and bar graphs are used to display numerical information about possible reasons the occurrence of a problem. They are named after the Italian economist who, in particular, established the 80/20 principle (works that are 80% important to the organization require 20% of the management's efforts, and activities that do not exceed 20% importance require 80% of the efforts). The art of a leader is to separate and perform the most important work).

Force field analysis is also a useful technique in evaluating factors. Steps to be taken:

1. Clear definition of the desired result.
2. Identification of favorable and unfavorable acting forces.
3. Establishing ways to reduce the strength of adverse effects or eliminate them, identify opportunities for the manifestation of favorable factors.
4. Selection of actions aimed at achieving the desired changes that can be taken.

The techniques discussed above can be used individually, but they work more effectively in a team, especially where creative thinking is required.

Problem solving as part of a team

Although the model and methods of problem solving are known, the process of working in a team requires management to activate its members. Teams learn from their own experience what difficulties can prevent effective problem solving if they are not overcome. In the course of teamwork, it is revealed which team members are more effective at the stage of introducing ideas, and which ones are at the stage of their development and elaboration.

Belbin ( Belbin, 1981) conducted research at the Henley College of Management to determine the characteristics of successful teams. He identified nine roles for participants and their corresponding behaviors that will contribute to team success. Each role has its own party in the game for successful problem solving. Among team members, some generate ideas, evaluate their usefulness, others bring them to a solution that can be implemented in the work environment. Still others are needed to support effective teamwork and to ensure that tasks are completed.

Robson ( Robson, 1988) identified three key issues, lying outside the group decisions, which are worth paying attention to. So, sometimes the problem that was given to the group for resolution simply disappears. Conversely, individuals may be reluctant to join a problem-solving group for fear of demonstrating ignorance, or groups may be viewed with suspicion by other employees.

Robson attaches great importance to both internal problems associated with the use of time, interpersonal difficulties, lack of appropriate skills and motivation, and problems associated with the decision-making process of the team.

According to this concept, when a team turns into a connected community, people with views that contradict the general opinion are excluded from it, and those who express agreement with the views of the majority remain. Team members, when making decisions in a group, become so confident that they sometimes take even more risks compared to the option of making an individual decision, since the most important thing in such a team is to maintain harmony.

Solving problems that arise in the process of work

There are any number of ways to solve problems that arise in the process of work, many of which can be learned from the Japanese, who have experience in solving organizational problems that are important today, such as achieving and maintaining competitive advantage. Here is a link to the kaizen approach, which uses cross-functional teams and quality circles.

The philosophy of kaizen (kaizen), originated in Japan and described by Walker (1993), is recognized as the foundation of the country's competitive success in the world market. It is now widely used in production even in companies that do not have ties with Japan. Kaizen is a technology for achieving long-term development by creating a system that constantly makes many small changes directly at each workplace. The system implements the so-called "customer-centric" approach, in which customers, external (customers) and internal (employees), are perceived as the most important asset of the organization. This requires an atmosphere of engagement, responsibility and openness.

The infinite loop of improvements is a powerful technology behind this approach and includes:

Plan - survey / understanding / definition.

The point is appropriate action.

Verification - confirmation of the effect / evaluation.

Act - feedback from the source.

It can be called the PDPA cycle. It is often said that Japanese managers spend 80% of their time on planning, while in the West the same amount is spent on activities. Japanese managers tend to move quickly through the APAP cycle, especially in the first two stages. They are meticulous in standardizing and verifying every stage of system development.

Stephens (Stephens, 1988) emphasized the importance of the organizational climate as an incentive or barrier to effective problem solving. Many organizations have failed in the past in creative problem solving because the predominant management style in making risky decisions has been to obstruct people. Successful organizations embraced risk by accepting failure as an opportunity and rewarding innovative ideas. An authoritarian, critical management style forces people to adapt to a low-risk strategy. Managers delegating problem solving to staff enable the process to get to the point where people get the information they need and take responsibility for the recommendations.

In the next ten years, problem solving will involve overcoming not only functional, but also cultural and company boundaries. As business becomes more and more global, people will be forced to develop their skills in solving a wide variety of issues in a multicultural environment. Their success will depend on the methods used and the identification of the various forces that originate from people's belonging to a particular culture.

The problems that each of us faces in life can be completely different. These can be business or personal issues, unresolved tasks that turn into problems over time, personal responsibility for making decisions. But not everyone is able to find the most effective way out of a difficult situation, because in order to make a competent decision, you need a lot of experience, time, wisdom and knowledge.

Currently, there are many different methods and techniques for finding and developing solutions. The main task of a person is to decide which technique is suitable for a particular person and for a particular situation.

Today there is a rather interesting opinion that there are no problems, but only tasks that need to be solved. Problems are a product of our mind. You can disagree with this, because everyone has freedom of choice. However, the concept of "problem" is synonymous with the concept of "task", and therefore, giving problems the form of tasks, we significantly simplify their solution.

From your school years, you probably remember that there are problems with one, two, three or more unknowns; there are even those that contain a minimum of initial information. It's about the same in life: faced with an insoluble situation, a person at first thinks that he is unable to overcome it. But as the tangle of questions is unraveled, he begins to understand that the solution has already been found, and found correctly.

But is it possible to make problem solving and decision making follow a single algorithm? We want to please you - it can be done, and for this you need, firstly, to form your own decision-making system, and secondly, constantly, always and everywhere hone the skill of its application.

Any person can create his own personal system for working with problems, taking as a basis the experience from the outside - the knowledge of other people and the methods that they use to. Next, we will introduce you to almost two dozen of them.

Methods and techniques for finding effective solutions

There are many methods and techniques for finding the right solutions. Each of them individually and all of them together contribute to effective creative activity and are reliable tools in life, work and study. And if you consider yourself to be a person who is able to solve problems competently (or strive to become such a person), you need to know about these tools without fail.

The most effective methods and techniques for finding solutions include:

• Brainstorming (including varieties)
• Synectics (including varieties)
• Delphi method
• Conference of Ideas (including varieties)
• Idea Engineering
• Collective notepad method
• Card poll
• Focal object method
• System Analysis
• SWOT analysis

We will also present a small selection of additional methods, since it is simply impossible to describe them all within the framework of one lesson. Plus, we note that in order to master most of the methods, you will have to use auxiliary materials, for example, separate ones, as well as third-party resources, for example, Wikipedia.

Brainstorm

In general, we already have several materials about brainstorming ("", ""), but nevertheless we decided to include it in this course.

Brainstorming is a special method of work aimed at finding alternative solutions to various kinds of problems. Most of all, he approaches situations where the solution to a problem is focused on obtaining a specific result.

The method is carried out on the basis of several stages:

• Appears to be a problem
• The maximum number of options for solving the problem is put forward
• From the array of ideas, several of the most realistic and effective are selected.
• Selected ideas are developed and worked out
• Based on the results obtained, solutions to the problem are developed.

In most cases, brainstorming takes place within 2-3 hours. Most of the time is devoted to the last stage.

There is also reverse brainstorming. Briefly, it looks like this:

• The problem is defined
• The problem is reversed: it is necessary to establish how the problem can be caused and how it can be aggravated
• The usual brainstorming is carried out, the purpose of which is to find the maximum options for aggravating the problem.
• The resulting options are reversed: you need to understand how to do the opposite - so that the situation improves
• The best options are identified and developed

Synectics

Synectics is rightfully recognized as one of the best methods for stimulating creative activity. It takes as a basis the principle of the same brainstorming, but here it is carried out by professionals or semi-professionals. Moreover, several assaults are carried out, and the experience gained is accumulated for adoption best solution.

If in brainstorming the proposed ideas are not initially subject to criticism, then synectics allows its elements. However, it is very important to use four techniques based on analogies:

• Direct analogy (how are such problems solved?)
• Personal analogy (how does the object of the problem situation behave?)
• Symbolic analogy (how can you figuratively formulate the essence of the problem?)
• Fantastic analogy (how could fairy tale characters solve the problem?)

If you follow the classical synectic path, then to implement the method, you need to assemble a small group of 5-7 people. You also need to establish the rules for the discussion, the composition of the group (social, professional, etc.).

• The problem is identified, its content is determined (the presence of interrelations is also determined here, as well as the likelihood of new problems appearing)
• With the help of analogies, the content of the problem is alienated (participants consciously deviate from the essence of the issue)
• Options for solving the problem are formed (after applying analogies, the data obtained are compared with the problem, on the basis of which ideas for solving the problem appear)

If necessary, the process can be repeated - this allows you to cut off useless options and find in the remaining aspects hidden during the initial acquaintance. The organizer and leader of the synectic session must keep its course under control, constantly participating in discussions. For this reason, synectics is available to more trained people. However, you can apply it without having the appropriate knowledge - you just need to spend a few sessions to gain experience.

Speaking of synectics, it is important to say about the synectic conference. It includes many important elements of traditional synectics, but is less rigorous. It is noteworthy that in the process of discussion, solutions are again found through analogies. They are formed in a random order, and then ideas are developed on their basis. The alienation phase present in the classical version of the method is absent. For a synectic conference to be effective, it must be conducted by people who are fluent in classical synectics.

Among other things, there is also visual synectics, where ideas are found through observation of the images in question. This variation of the method includes slightly different steps:

• Participants look at transparencies together
• Participants describe the image
• Participants analyze the situation
• Participants, based on the elements or relationships of the considered image, offer their ideas.
• If the ideas prove to be ineffective, the participants consider the following image

Visual synectics is not an easy method, for the implementation of which it is necessary to involve a professional specialist. By the way, you can read more about synectics at.

Delphi method

The Delphi method, which we have already written about in detail, is used as a predictive tool for finding the right solutions. The method is implemented as follows:

• A group of experts is recruited (from 5 to 20 people)
• Experts ask to be provided with written options for solving the problem (options must be independent)
• A deadline for developing and sending potential solutions is set (most often it is limited to 14 days)
• Options received after the expiration of the term are summed up (recurring ones are eliminated)
• The compiled list of results is sent to all participants of the method for the next review of existing proposals, the development of new ones and additions. ready ideas(this stage should also be limited in time; if necessary, it can be repeated)
• All received and finalized options are evaluated by the expert group based on the evaluation key and established criteria, which allows you to get a preliminary selection of options for solving the problem
• Experts conduct a final discussion of suitable options and choose the most suitable

The Delphi method may well be used by non-specialists, but if the question concerns professional areas activities, it is necessary to involve experts.

Idea Conference

The conference of ideas is, to a certain extent, another interpretation of brainstorming. But the difference lies in the pace of discussion of decisions, the presence of benevolent criticism in the form of comments and replicas. Critical evaluations in the ideas conference increase the value of proposals.

A conference of Gilde's ideas is popular in organizations. Managers and ordinary employees involved in the problem, as well as newcomers are involved in the discussion - their consciousness is not yet burdened with stereotypes, which is why they often put forward interesting offers. It must be borne in mind that the presence of skeptical persons and those who "already know everything" is excluded in the conference of ideas. The leader of the conference during the discussion behaves on an equal footing with the others, but controls the course of the discussion, maintains a relaxed atmosphere and promotes ideas.

The conference of ideas also has several varieties. The first one is "Discussion-66". It is a large meeting, the participants of which are divided into groups of six people. Independently of each other, groups are looking for solutions. Each group should have a speaker, recorder and moderator. You have 6 minutes to discuss the question. After that, all the groups come together, and their speakers voice what the teams were able to work out. The purpose of the final meeting is to come up with a new solution based on the information received from the groups. The advantage of "Discussion-66" can be called the fact that, thanks to the division of many people into small groups, each person takes part in solving the problem.

The second variety is the "Method 635". In it, a group of six people initially clearly formulates the problem and analyzes it. Each participant should have a form to write down ideas. Within 5 minutes, all participants fix three sentences in the forms, and then pass their form to a neighbor. He, in turn, writes down three new options, taking into account the sentences written before him. As a result, in half an hour, participants fill out six forms, which include up to 108 options for solving the problem in total.

Idea Engineering

Idea engineering is a method designed to account for and process ideas. The implementation of the method is based on five stages:

• Goal setting is determined. The organizer puts forward the problem and the goal to which the decision will lead.
• Participants are selected. The selection is carried out in much the same way as in a brainstorming session: everyone who already has his own vision of the current situation is involved (people who are not initiated into the problem can also participate).
• The difficulties and causes of the problem are analyzed. It is best to gather a team of people for analysis. All arguments, hypotheses and arguments are written on the cards.
• Solutions are being put together. All the information collected in the previous step is interpreted in the form of questions and offered to the team for decision. Offers are again fixed on the cards.
• A program of measures to eliminate the problem is being drawn up. Ideas should be analyzed and evaluated by specialists or other competent persons. The results obtained are brought to an agreed program of action.

Note that it is necessary to discuss the problem and write down the solutions one by one. For example, 10 minutes of discussion and 10 minutes of recording, 5 minutes of discussion and 5 minutes of recording, again 10 minutes of discussion and 10 minutes of recording, etc.

Creative Collaboration Method

The method of creative cooperation is interesting because it alternately contains individual and group work. Initially, a small (15-20 minutes) brainstorming session is held, after which the participants disperse to think about the problem on their own for another 10-15 minutes. At this time, you can supplement ideas, expand them and modify them, as well as come up with new ones.

Collective notepad method

The method of a collective notebook is akin to the method of ideological engineering. A group of people is brought together to discuss the problem, and each member is given idea pads that detail the problem. Each participant must, over a certain period of time, enter into his notebook the emerging solutions. The time to generate ideas can range from a few days to a month.

At the end of the deadline, participants submit their entries to the coordinator. His task is to systematize the material, bring to a common denominator and find potential solutions to the problem. The results of the work of the coordinator are studied and discussed by all participants. Distinctive feature of the group notebook method is that participants do not need to be limited either in place or in time for discussions.

Card poll

If a card survey is used to make a decision, the participants of the method gather in a calm environment where nothing will interfere. Already on the spot, they get acquainted with the problem written on the board or on the card. To clarify incomprehensible points, participants should ask counter questions and voice their arguments.

The team is then given some time (10 to 45 minutes) to write down their ideas or comments. Each participant makes notes on separate cards, and authorship is not indicated, which warns criticism in advance in one direction or another. After the survey is completed, the cards are grouped according to subject content or systematic principle.

Systematized information is considered by the parties interested in solving the problem. After that, its analysis is carried out, and the most priority solution is built on the basis of analytical data.

Focal object method

The focal object method activates . Its essence lies in the fact that the features of randomly selected objects are transferred to the object that needs to be improved. This object is in the transfer focus, and therefore is called focal. You can get acquainted with the method in detail by clicking on, and we will only indicate the main stages of its implementation:

• The focal object is selected (what needs improvement)
• Random objects are chosen (these can be concepts from any source, for example, newspapers or books, without fail - nouns related to different topics and different from the focal object)
• The properties of random objects are recorded
• Set properties are attached to the focal object
• The resulting options are developed through the creation of associations
• The resulting options are evaluated in terms of feasibility, originality and effectiveness.

The result of going through all these stages can be very interesting options solutions. The method showed the best results in relation to the search for modifications to existing action plans and decisions, as well as mechanisms and devices.

System Analysis

System analysis refers to scientific methods knowledge and is a set of actions aimed at establishing structural links between the elements of a particular system. It is based on mathematical, statistical, natural science, experimental and general scientific methods.

Main advantage system analysis is that it forms the basis for consistent and logical decision making. Perhaps this is due to the variety of procedures used by the method, many of which are already familiar to you: concretization, analysis, structuring, algorithmization, modeling, expert evaluation, testing, and others.

The decision-making procedure within the framework of system analysis is built as follows:

• The problem is formulated
• Goals are defined
• Criteria for achieving goals are defined
• Models are built to justify decisions
• The optimal solution is found
• The decision is agreed
• Preparations are underway for the implementation of the solution
• The decision is approved
• The solution is being implemented
• The effectiveness of the solution is checked

But this algorithm can be supplemented with other steps, depending on how many factors should be analyzed.

SWOT analysis

SWOT analysis refers to methods strategic planning. It helps to identify internal and external factors by dividing them into four categories:

• Strengths
• Weak sides(Weaknesses)
• Opportunities
• Threats

The method is effective when it is required to give an initial assessment of the situation, but it cannot replace the development of a strategy or analysis of the dynamics. His task is to describe the situation in a structured way. The conclusions drawn will always be descriptive, without giving any recommendations or indicating priorities. To get the most out of the method, it is recommended to build options for action together with it. As a result, you can get information about the strengths that can be used, understand how to overcome weaknesses, what needs to be applied to eliminate threats and what needs to be abandoned in order to avoid negative consequences. Read more about the SWOT analysis method.

These are the most common methods and techniques for finding effective solutions. As you noticed, they all differ in complexity - if simple ones can be applied without special knowledge, then more serious ones require either the study of specialized literature, or the involvement of an experienced specialist. As an addition to the proposed tools, we offer you a small selection of other methods that you can also take note of.

Additional troubleshooting methods

In this block, we will only give a list of methods with brief explanations:

• Decision tree. Decision support tool. It is most often used in data analysis and statistics, but it can also be used in everyday life. A decision tree has a "trunk", "branches" and "leaves". The trunk is the problem, the branches show its attributes, and the leaves show from the value. Among the advantages of the method, one should single out the simplicity of its understanding and interpretation, the absence of the need for data preparation, the ability to work with intervals and categories, the ability to evaluate using static tests, reliability, and the ability to process large flows of information without preparatory procedures.

• Wheel method. Allows you to relatively quickly find a solution to the problem and evaluate it. It consists of eight steps: first, the problem situation is described in detail, then specific facts are searched for and missing information is established, after which the problem is formulated in a positive way. Next, brainstorming is carried out to create a field of ideas for solving the problem, the options found are assessed for realism, a scenario for practical implementation is thought out, and it is compiled. At the last stage, actions are performed, after which their effectiveness is evaluated.
• Method "Three chests". Designed for even faster problem solving. In the process, it is necessary to fill three "chests" with information. The first contains answers to the question: “What negative consequences await us if we follow this path?”. To fill the second, the real threat of the risks contained in the first chest is assessed. The third chest is filled with possible "antidotes" from the threats of the second chest, which are found by brainstorming. As a result, solutions are found, implemented and evaluated.
• Method of successive approximations. Basically, it's trial and error. It is preferable to use it when there is little information on the problem. The bottom line is that solutions are consistently put forward and considered. Bad Ideas are discarded, and new ones are offered instead, and again checked. There are no special rules for searching and evaluating here - everything is decided subjectively, and the effectiveness of the method depends on how well the people (or the person) who solve the problem understand the issue. When using the method, it is important to take into account the element of chance.
• Morphological feature method. He sets himself the task of covering the entire spectrum of solutions to the problem, due to the laws of the structure of the object under study, as well as discovering new search zones that were not obvious from the outset. When implementing the method, a morphological two-dimensional table or several multidimensional matrices are compiled, where all combinations of the object's characteristics are entered. The complexity of the method lies in the fact that it is necessary to analyze a large number of combinations. The method significantly expands the search area, but does not offer a universal method for evaluating options for combinations of characteristics.
• Bush Idea Matrix. This is a method of analyzing problem situations and determining the field of search for solutions. To implement it, you need to build a matrix of bilateral relations, for which you need to answer the questions: “What?”, “Who?”, “Where?”, “How?”, “Why?”, “What?” and when?". By answering them, a person receives all the information about the problem. If the questions are combined, you can get a great heuristic hint for the solution.
• Theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ). This method points the way to finding one or more solutions to the problem. With the help of it, an algorithm for obtaining inventive ideas is created, principles are developed that allow finding original solutions. The basic premise of TRIZ is that any system arises and develops on the basis of objective laws. These laws can be established and applied to solve problems and predict the development of situations. TRIZ makes it possible to find a wide range of solutions, including the ideal one. You can learn more about TRIZ.
• Eisenhower Matrix. The most popular solution search tool used ordinary people and professionals around the world. The meaning of the matrix is ​​to teach a person to optimally distribute the load, to distinguish between important and urgent, to reduce time for meaningless activities. The matrix consists of four quadrants with two axes - importance and urgency. In each of them, cases and tasks are entered, and as a result, a person receives an objective picture of priority tasks. The specifics of working with the Eisenhower matrix are clearly and easily described in.
• Descartes square. A very simple decision-making technique that takes very little time to apply. The technique helps to identify the main selection criteria and evaluate the consequences of the decisions made. To use the technique, you need to draw a square and divide it into four parts. In each part, the question is written: “What will happen if this happens?”, “What will happen if this does not happen?”, “What will not happen if this happens?” and “What won’t happen if it doesn’t happen?”. These questions are points of observation for the problem. It is from these positions that it must be considered. Having answered all the questions, a person receives an objective picture of the state of affairs and the opportunity to assess the prospects. We have examined Descartes' square in sufficient detail.

I would like to note that if you wish, you can find other methods and techniques for finding and developing effective solutions. This topic is very relevant today, and experts around the world are constantly working on simplifying and improving the efficiency of decision-making. We just have to sum up the lesson.

Find effective solutions problems can be learned. To do this, you just need to correctly identify the problem and choose the method of finding a solution that is most suitable for it. For example, for a situational analysis of a problem, brainstorming, a decision tree and factor analysis are suitable, and for a system analysis, the Delphi method, the morphological feature method, and the expert assessment method are suitable. For ordinary life situations you can use the Eisenhower matrix, Descartes square, the Wheel and Three Chest methods. In the same way, methods should be selected depending on the number of participants involved in the problem: if this is a team or another group of people, more complex methods can be used (especially if there are specialists in the team), and for one or two people it is quite acceptable simple techniques.

But decision-making involves not only finding and implementing them, but also evaluating their effectiveness. Despite the fact that we have already briefly mentioned it, it should be said separately. In the fourth lesson, we will talk about how easy it is to evaluate the effectiveness of decisions made in everyday life and what the effectiveness evaluation is based on. management decisions.

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