How to Become a Better Problem-Solver in Your Business

By Brian Lewis
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01 Mar, 2022
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Business is all doing one thing and one thing alone – solving problems. Whether your business sells goods or services, you are solving a problem for someone else, and solving it so well that they are willing to pay you for your solution. But business isn’t just about solving problems for your clients and customers, if you are employed by a business, your job is also to solve problems for your business. And despite what you might believe, you can learn to be a better problem solver. Here are a few things that you can do to make yourself a better problem solver at your business.

Look at the Full Picture

The most important first step to becoming a better problem solver at your business is to look at the full picture. While there are dozens of short-term solutions that may all have similar outcomes, business is a long-term proposition, requiring long term solutions. Consider the full implications of any decision that your business needs to make to see what the real outcomes may be and find what the best possible outcome really looks like.

Use a Clear Methodology

Another key to becoming the best problem solver possible at your business is to use a clear methodology when trying to solve problems. A lot of people believe that the best way to solve problems is to freestyle it, but a problem-solving method is the most important thing. The 8D problem solving process helps you get down to the root issue by providing a framework that is applicable to almost any problem. Once the heart of the issue is discovered, it becomes much easier to solve it, especially with a little creativity on your part. Give 8D a try next time you are solving a problem.

Evaluate Every Solution

The final step to becoming the most effective problem solver possible at your business is to evaluate every possible solution to your problem. All too often people decline to even consider most solutions to a problem without thoughtful consideration because they sound too outrageous. But sometimes, the craziest solution is the most effective. Make sure that you consider every solution, even the wild ones, to ensure that you find the best possible solution.

Problem solving is not an art, it is a science. And it is a science that anyone can learn and perfect with practice. Consider these three techniques when you are problem solving to become the most effective problem solver you can be.

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