Tools For Problem Solving

The training process is described below as if you were teaching the workshop.It is beneficial and important to have examples of each of the problem solving tools from your own company. The first problem solving tool introduced is the process flow diagram.

If not, you can learn about each of them through our monthly publications.

Each problem solving tool is introduced using the following: The M&M’s are then used to demonstrate how to make a process flow diagram, Pareto diagram, etc.

In most cases a combination of these will be used to solve a problem.

These are the most basic of problem solving methods and tools, and it is recommended you become familiar with these if working in the fields mentioned above.

Becoming better problem solvers allows us to become more effective engineers or managers and increases our value to an organization.

Effective problem solving requires an organized approach, knowledgeable problem solvers, teamwork and the appropriate tools.

Problem solving and analysis forms an integral part of continuous improvement and allows the appropriate selection of kaizen, process analysis and lean concepts not only to solve problems but to uncover hidden opportunities and areas which are under performing.

Many problems presented to operations managers, engineers, consultants and lean champions will have a variety of syptoms and possible causes, but finding the exact cause is best achieved through a structured analysis process using some of the concepts and tools listed below.

Once the problem has been defined and the relevant data collected, the analysis and solution decision making can be carried out by a number of different ways and employ different methods.

Some of the most popular in lean and operational environments include: Brain storming Gap Analysis Employee surveys FMEA Analysis Plan Do Check Act Cycle Potential problem analysis to identify other problems or risk Fishbone diagram 5 whys Root cause analysis Pareto principle and Pareto charts Process flow charts Problem Trees None of the above concepts and methods is recommended for any particular problem; they all have certain benefits and may suit different situations.