PROBLEM ANALYSIS AND SOLVING PARADIGM
(A Technical Guide to Solving Cases)
The Problem Analysis and Solving Paradigm is a framework which serves as a guide in tackling any business or day-to day issues. It provides key steps, which help determine the real problem at hand, and the appropriate solution for it.
The paradigm is a mental process. It trains the mind to constantly approach a given situation in an orderly and systematic way of thinking. It facilitates both analysis and synthesis. It can be compared to a structure, which can take on many forms depending on the given scenario.
The paradigm has six major components: (1) Identification of the core problem, (2) Defining the decision criteria, OR identifying areas for consideration, (3) Listing of alternative solutions, (4) Analyzing the merit of the alternative solutions against the decision criteria, (5) Decision, (6) Formulation of an action plan to implement the decision.
IDENTIFICATION AND FRAMING OF THE PROBLEM: The starting point of any probe or investigation is the identification of the problem. What is a problem? Or When can it be considered that a given scenario is a problem? There is a problem when reality falls short of the expectation. A problem can be perceived as a gap, something that is lacking, a missing link in the chain of expectations, a breech in standards, a conflict, an unmet output.
The key question however in the identification of the core problem is not so much WHAT but WHY. Why is there a gap? Why is there an unmet expectation? Why are not standards being met? Why are profits going down? People underperforming? Identification of the core problem means ...