A Step-by-Step Guide to Problem Solving - Part of the Cycle of Control

If you’re facing recurring issues in your processes and wondering why problems keep arising despite your best efforts, it’s time to focus on solving the root causes.

In this video, we dive into problem solving as a critical element of the Cycle of Control. While performance control addresses outputs, problem solving addresses the deviations that occur and ensures that they don’t happen again. Effective problem solving is not just about fixing the immediate issue, but about understanding the root causes and implementing solutions that create lasting improvements across your organisation.

Problem solving is a systematic process that starts with defining the problem clearly. This involves asking the right questions, such as “What happened?”, “Who was involved?”, and “What are the underlying causes?”. Once the problem is defined, a multi-disciplinary team is brought together to brainstorm potential causes and eliminate unlikely ones. This process uses tools like the 5 Whys and Fishbone diagram to dig deep into the issue and identify the true root causes. By tackling these root causes with corrective and preventive actions, you ensure that the problem doesn’t recur.

A structured approach to problem solving is essential to implement this process effectively across your organisation. The video outlines a six-step method that starts with assembling the right team and defining the problem. From there, the team works through root cause analysis, implements countermeasures, and ensures that solutions are sustained. The key is to integrate problem solving into your daily and weekly performance meetings, where deviations can be addressed quickly, and solutions are monitored for effectiveness over time.

#continuousimprovement #problem solving #operationalexcellence
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_YTZokpFWU

Chapter Titles
00:00 Introduction to Problem Solving
01:04 Defining the Problem Clearly
02:52 Root Cause Analysis and Tools
05:13 Assembling the Right Team
07:14 Temporary Controls and Quick Fixes
08:57 Implementing Root Cause Solutions
10:26 The Six-Step Problem Solving Method

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