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Step 3 - Analysing Possible Solutions in Problem Solving

Step 3 - Analysing Possible Solutions in Problem Solving

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In the last two sessions, our subject-matter expert, Prashanth Balasubramanian, taught you the first two steps of the four-step problem-solving approach. In these steps, you learnt how to frame and analyse a problem. Now that you are well acquainted with the first two steps of this approach, let’s move onto the third step, that is, to analyse possible solutions. In this segment, you will learn about a few specific concepts on analysing solutions. Let’s get started!

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You are now well familiar with the concepts and techniques involved in problem-solving. Now, let’s summarise the key takeaways from the video:

Analysing the possible solutions to a problem includes specific activities, each of which involves the following steps:
- Brainstorming potential solutions
- Prioritising those solutions
- Considering key implications
Brainstorming and ideating solutions include certain concepts, which are mentioned in the table provided below.

Design Thinking

Phased process

Empathise
Define
Ideate
Prototype
Test

Non-linear process

Flexibility
Ability to skip steps

Iterative

Ability to review steps and make changes

De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats

Blue hat (Planning)

Managing and controlling the situation
Drawing conclusion and doing forward planning

White hat (Facts)

Understanding the context of the problem
Laying out all the facts

Green hat (Ideas)

Driving ideation
Building innovative solutions

Yellow hat (Benefits)

Positivity and optimism
Discussion of various solutions and benefits

Black hat (Judgement)
Critical thinking

Evaluation of shortcomings in the solution
Practical approach to problem solving

Red hat (Emotion)

Building trust in the solution

In the next video, let's look at few more concepts to thoroughly analyse the solution:

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Let's quickly summarise the key concepts learnt from this video:

Storyboarding and Prototyping

Storyboarding refers to constructing a visual representation of the solution. Its advantages are as follows:

Allows you to explain the solution
Outlines the impact of the solution
Helps garner initial feedback

Prototyping refers to crafting a physical representation of your idea and then making improvements and changes to it on the basis of the feedback that you receive. The final product then makes it to the market.

6-3-5 Technique

This technique involves six people writing down three ideas in five minutes

SCAMPER is a technique that is used to improve existing products and services. It stands for Substitute, Combine, Adjust, Modify, Put to other use, Eliminate and Rearrange, which are explained below:

Substitute: This involves finding a substitute for your existing product or service that may yield better results. You can then choose between the two.
Combine: You can combine several different ideas and concepts to see if that works better.
Adjust: This refers to making improvements in a product or service to gain better results.
Modify: This step refers to modifying and making changes to an existing product or service. It brings out the innovative capabilities of an organisation
Put to other use: This refers to putting the current product or service to another use.
Eliminate: As the name suggests, this step aims to eliminate a product, service or concept that is less valuable than the others.
Rearrange: This step refers to developing and bringing in the latest concept from a pre-existing one to solve the problem.

Now you are aware of the brainstorming and ideation process for analysing solutions. In the next segment, you will learn about the tips and techniques to prioritise solutions.

Additional Resources: