Six Stage Problem Solving Process

The six stage problem solving process involves various steps that can be used as a guide to explore any problem and thereby implement a solution for it. In all stages there is a mix of two different styles of thinking or approaches to understand the problem, one is divergent and the other is convergent. Divergent is more of a brainstorming technique which allows for an unstructured thought process and allows the exploration of all aspects of the given problem while convergent is more structured and seems to be more a response to the divergent thoughts that arise. The first stage of the process is exploring the mess which entails identifying all of the possible problems or opportunities and then sleuthing out a description of the situation and understand what key facts and data are needed. Stage two encompasses a search for relevant information in the forms of raw data or literature etc... that will aid in further refine and broaden the understanding of the situation which will end with an hypothesis of the source of the problem and possible solutions. Stage three is the identification of the problem and will involve bringing potential problem statements to light and then finally settling on the most appropriate for the situation identified as well as breaking our problem into sub problem if required. Stage four involves letting the creative and free thought process work its magic to find all of the plausible solutions and pros and cons for each to the identified problem. In the fifth stage, a solution is chosen from the stage four outcome and all weaknesses are identified and resolved to a satisfactory level, a solution with an action plan and justification for the plan are the end result. Finally in the sixth stage the solution is laid out in an implementation plan and is put into play, provided resistance from top level management, high risk level or personal cost is not to great for the organization thereby leading to the reassessment of the problem and solution (Powell & Baker, 2009).


References:
Powell, S. G., & Baker, K. R. (2009). Management Science, The Art of Modeling with Spreadsheets. Hoboken, NJ: Elbe, Susan.