Problem Solving Method

A Problem Solving Method is a structured method that enables systematic approaches to complete problem solving tasks through solution generation processes.

• AKA: Solution Development Approach, Problem Resolution Technique, Problem Management Methodology.
• Context:
  • It can typically guide Problem Analysis through structured investigation techniques.
  • It can typically organize Solution Development through sequential problem solving steps.
  • It can typically facilitate Option Evaluation through assessment criteria frameworks.
  • It can typically support Decision Making through systematic comparison processes.
  • It can typically enable Solution Implementation through action planning frameworks.
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  • It can often integrate Problem Definition during initial problem assessment.
  • It can often incorporate Solution Validation during verification process.
  • It can often utilize Problem Solving Heuristics during complex situation analysis.
  • It can often apply Domain Knowledge during specialized problem context.
  • It can often adapt Feedback Mechanisms during solution refinement cycles.
  • ...
  • It can range from being a Simple Problem Solving Method to being a Complex Problem Solving Method, depending on its method complexity.
  • It can range from being a Linear Problem Solving Method to being a Recursive Problem Solving Method, depending on its process structure.
  • It can range from being a Domain-Specific Problem Solving Method to being a General Problem Solving Method, depending on its application scope.
  • It can range from being a Individual Problem Solving Method to being a Collaborative Problem Solving Method, depending on its participant structure.
  • It can range from being a Intuitive Problem Solving Method to being a Analytical Problem Solving Method, depending on its cognitive approach.
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  • It can have Problem Definition Phase for problem clarification.
  • It can have Information Gathering Phase for relevant data collection.
  • It can have Option Generation Phase for potential solution creation.
  • It can have Decision Making Phase for optimal solution selection.
  • It can have Implementation Planning Phase for action step development.
  • It can have Evaluation Phase for solution effectiveness assessment.
  • ...
• Examples:
  • General Problem Solving Method Categories, such as:
    • Scientific Problem Solving Methods, such as:
      • Scientific Method for hypothesis-based investigation.
      • Root Cause Analysis for underlying problem identification.
      • Systems Thinking Approach for holistic problem understanding.
    • Engineering Problem Solving Methods, such as:
      • Design Thinking Method for human-centered solution development.
      • TRIZ Method for technical contradiction resolution.
      • Systems Engineering Method for complex system problem management.
    • Business Problem Solving Methods, such as:
      • Six Sigma Method for data-driven process improvement.
      • Lean Problem Solving for waste elimination.
      • Agile Problem Solving for iterative solution development.
  • Cognitive Problem Solving Method Categories, such as:
    • Analytical Problem Solving Methods, such as:
      • Logic-Based Problem Solving for deductive reasoning application.
      • Mathematical Problem Solving for quantitative solution development.
      • Algorithm-Based Problem Solving for step-by-step solution generation.
    • Creative Problem Solving Methods, such as:
      • Lateral Thinking Method for perspective-shifting solution creation.
      • Brainstorming Method for idea generation session.
      • Morphological Analysis for systematic combination exploration.
  • Decision-Making Problem Solving Method Categories, such as:
    • Structured Decision Methods, such as:
      • Decision Matrix Method for option comparison analysis.
      • Decision Tree Method for branching possibility evaluation.
      • Multi-Criteria Decision Method for complex factor assessment.
  • ...
• Counter-Examples:
  • Trial and Error Approach, which lacks systematic solution processes.
  • Intuitive Decision Making, which lacks structured evaluation steps.
  • Experience-Based Reaction, which relies on past exposure rather than methodical analysis.
  • Random Solution Testing, which lacks organized option assessment.
  • Prescribed Procedure, which executes predefined actions without problem analysis.
• See: Problem Solving Task, Problem Solving Heuristic, Decision Making Method, Critical Thinking Process, Solution Strategy, Problem Solving System, Problem Solving Framework.

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