Description
 

There are many approaches to problem solving. Although the Six Sigma DMAIC and 8D problem solving methodologies are highly rigorous and require quite a fair bit of tools for data and statistical analysis, these techniques are more suitable for engineers and other professional/technical staff. 

 

However, for shopfloor supervisors, technicians and operators as well as office/administrative support staff, a lighter and simpler problem solving approach is more suitable. The Five Steps of Problem Solving process was developed specifically for this purpose.  

 

Based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) approach, the Five Steps of Problem Solving consist of: 

 

1. Define the Problem
2. Analyze Root Cause
3. Develop Countermeasures
4. Implement Solutions
5. Evaluate & Follow Up. 

 

The tools covered in this presentation are the more commonly used ones in problem solving, process improvement and kaizen activities.  They include Brainstorming, Flowchart, Pareto Chart, Cause & Effect Diagram and last but not least the Five Whys.

Learning Objectives​

 

1. Understand the principles and key concepts of problem solving

2. Learn how to apply the five simple steps of problem solving and the common tools

3. Understand the pitfalls to avoid and the critical success factors for successful problem solving

 

Contents



1. Introduction to Problem Solving

• Methods to increase productivity

• Inefficient processes create waste

• Waste adds cost without delivering customers what they want

• The blind men and an elephant

• What is a problem?

• Problem solving funnel

• Kaizen versus problem solving

• What problem solving is not

• Impact of problem solving

• Benefits of problem solving

2. Five Steps of Problem Solving

• The PDCA approach to problem solving

• Five steps of problem solving

• Step 1: Define the problem

• Step 2: Analyze root cause

• Step 3: Develop countermeasures

• Step 4: Implement solutions

• Step 5: Evaluate and follow up

 

3. Common Problem Solving Tools

• Problem solving tools

• Brainstorming

• Flow chart

• Check sheet

• Run chart

• Pareto chart

• Cause and effect diagram

• Five whys

4. Pitfalls to Avoid

 

5. Critical Success Factors

 

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You may also be interested in the following related training presentations and template:

1. PDCA Problem Solving Technique & Tools

2. Seven Basic Tools of Quality

3. Seven Advanced Tools of Quality

4. Useful Tools for Problem Solving

5. PDCA Problem Solving Template

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