By Ayanda Mtatana

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The six-step problem-solving process

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The six-step problem solving

loop

1. Identify the problem

2. Analyse the problem

3. Explore informationand ideas4. Select the best idea

5. Build and testthe ideas

6. Evaluate results

The six-step problem solving process enables problems to be solved at a fast and effective level. It is a straightforward way to solve problems as it consists of steps that have been well explained.

It is understandable that people do not use the same problem solving methods as problems are different and will therefore require different methods to solve them.

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Step 1

Identify the problem using the ‘Star’ method. This involves looking at the problem thoroughly and reviewing what the main issues are and then picking the main cause behind these issues.

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Step 2

After identifying the cause of the problem, analyzing this root cause. This involves gathering information. If there is not enough information, try and do investigations. when the information is enough, take a very close look at what is going on. Try to identify why the problem occurred so that it can be fixed and not be repeated in the future.

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Step 3

This is when you generate solutions. In this step use the brainstorming process to generate as many solutions as possible. There are no wrong answers in brainstorming. If operating as a group, other’s suggestions should not be judged.

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Step 4

In this step, out of all the possible solutions, only one is to be selected as the best solution to fix the problem. Here the group or individual is trying to workout the most effective strategy to solve the problem given the circumstances that they are in.

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Step 5

This is the time that the best solution is put to the test so as to see if it works best to solve the problem at hand.

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Step 6

Here the results are then evaluated so as to decide whether the results are positive meaning that the idea works or decide that the idea actually produced negative results meaning that the whole process would need to be repeated until the right idea is found.

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Now that you know the method better, it would be wise to begin using it to solve problems as this problem-solving process is a valuable tool to solve difficult and complex issues. It is highly recommended.