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Problem
solving is a tool, a skill and a process. It is a tool because
it can help you solve an immediate problem or to achieve a goal.
It is a skill because once you have learnt it you can use it
repeatedly. It is also a process because it involves taking
a number of steps. Problem-solving often involves decision-making,
and decision-making is especially important for management and
leadership.
To solve
a problem proper understanding of the problem is required. Without
knowing the problem sufficiently, its solution can’t be
found out. Adequate resources should be available. These resources
may include money, machine, manpower, rational thinking, etc.
Assumptions regarding the solution of the problem are also needed.
The approach toward problem solving should be free from fear,
anxiety, pessimism, stress and other negativities. Team work
can also prove to be better at detecting errors, identifying
pitfalls and avoiding mistakes.
All
the input factors in right dimension and in right proportion
will give the way to solve the problem. Accordingly, a person
or group can make the rules or policies or plans for the solution
of the problem. It may be possible that there will be many solutions
for a problem. But the selection of most effective and efficient
solution is required.
The
problem can be solved by following a particular plan. This plan
is made after analyzing the problem and various resources required
for it. The resources should be used efficiently and effectively
according to the plan. Some assumptions can be introduced in
the process of problem solving if required, but it should not
affect the whole process of problem solving. Another important
factor for these skills to work significantly is the time management.
Actions should be in time and systematically to get the proper
coordination in problem solving.
There are many
type of problems an organization can face. These include economical, political,
social and regarding management. Some problems are solvable and others
are unsolvable. But only those problems can be solved for which adequate
resources are available. If a problem has alternate solutions than any
other solution can be selected if one is not permitted by the environment
and the organization. If support from external environment is required
and available, it also helps in problem solving.
There are some
problems in an organization which can’t be solved at a particular
time or at all. These problems may be related to the money, time and man
power. For example, if major investment of money is required and sufficient
funds are not available than it can create a hurdle in problem solving.
Other problems regarding nature, land, conflicts in management, etc. may
not get the solution at the required particular point of time. If a solution
is available, but if it is not permitted by the organization and no other
alternate solution is there than it also creates a problem.
The
problem is analyzed and understood by the persons. With the
proper planning and with the use of resources the solution comes
out. It is the coordination of all the factors which make the
problem to get solved. Problem solving skills are needed to
apply in the proper dimension and direction so that a solution
can be made permissible and accessible to all.
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