How many problems do you solve per day in your plant or office? Problems in the plant or office are the source of power for an engineer. This is a test of his ability to come up with a solution that is practical, economical and socially acceptable. Here are the hints on how to come up with a solution to problems that is applicable to both humans and machines alike:
- Take time to examine and explore the problem thoroughly before setting out in search of a solution. To understand the problem is, sometimes, to solve it.
- Break the problems into smaller parts and solve each part separately. This will often make solving a difficult problem easier.
- There are infinite number of resources for problem solving.
- Remember, you can always do something.
- Problems are not punishment, it is an opportunity to increase the happiness of the world and for you to show how powerful you are.
- The formulation of a problem determines the range of your choices: the answers you received depend on the questions you asked.
- Do not look for a solution until you fully understand the problem, and do not select a solution until you have a whole range of choices.
- The initial statement of the problem often reflects a preconceived solution.
- A wide range of choices allows you to choose the best from among many. A choice of one is not a choice.
- People work to implement their own ideas and solution much more than they work to implement others'.
- Remember the critical importance of acceptance in solving problems. A solution that is technologically brilliant but sociologically stupid is not a good solution.
- When the goal state is clear but the present state is ambiguous, try working it out backwards.
- Procrastinators finish last.
- Denying the problems perpetuates it.
- Solve the problem that really exists, not just the symptoms of a problem, not the problem you already have a solution for, not the problem you wished existed, and not the problem someone else thinks exist.
- A maker follows a plan; a creator produces a plan.
- Creativity is the construction of something new out of something old, through effort and imagination.
There is joy in problem solving. It increases self confidence and it motivates you to do more. You are building a reputation in everything you do. And, the prize of solving a problem? PROMOTION ( who knows?).
Read more...
