Problem-solving Skills

Problem-solving Skills

“Most people spend more time and energy going around problems than in trying to
solve them.” Henry Ford

Good problem solving skills empower individuals in their professional and personal
lives. Good problem solving skills seldom come naturally; they are consciously learnt
and nurtured. The repertoire of good problem solving skills includes:
• developing creative and innovative solutions;
• developing practical solutions;
• showing independence and initiative in identifying problems and solving
them;
• applying a range of strategies to problem-solving;
• applying problem-solving strategies across a range of areas;

What is a Problem?

1. A problem is an opportunity for improvement. “Every problem has a gift for you
in its hands,” says Richard Bach. Someone coined the word “probortunity” – an acronym
combining the words “problem” and “opportunity”. A probortunity is a reminder to look
at problems as possible opportunities. An optimist looks at challenging or problematic
events as potential opportunities for improvement. He is seen always seeking answers
for the questions such as:
• Is there more than one probortunity?
• Is it my personal probortunity? Is it the organization’s probortunity?
• Is it an actual probortunity or just an annoyance?
• Is this the real probortunity, or merely a symptom of a larger one?

2. A problem is the difference between the actual state and desired state. A
problem could also be the result of the knowledge that there is a gap between the
actual and desired or ideal state of objectives. Clarity of the problem is determined by
the clarity of the knowledge of what precisely one wants and what one has. Greater
clarity of the problem helps in finding a better and effective solution.

3. A problem results from the recognition of a present imperfect and the belief
in the possibility of a better future. The belief that one’s hopes can be achieved will
give one the will to aim towards a better future. Hopes challenge one’s potential, and
challenge is another definition of a problem.