Problem Solving

Fifty Problem Solving Strategies Explained

By John Malouff, J.D., Ph.D.

John lists and then briefly explains 50 problem solving strategies that can be used instantly. He admits that all of the ideas are not new. However, he provides fresh explanations and new examples that make these strategies valuable.

http://www.une.edu.au/psychology/staff/malouff/problem.htm

Problem Solving: Definition, terminology, and patterns

By Hidetoshi Shibata

This article proposes a methodology for Problem Solving involving the use of procedures and strategies that the author calls "patterns".

http://www.mediafrontier.com/Article/PS/PS.htm

Problem solving strategy

By Dr Roger G. Hadgraft and Dr J. Kaya Prpic

This document describes a general approach to problem solving. It can be used at the start of a new problem (eg for problem identification) but also whenever a smaller problem arises.

http://cleo.eng.monash.edu.au/teaching/subjects/learning/strategy/strategy.html

Problem Solving Techniques

By Robert Harris

As with creative thinking, flexibility is a crucially important feature in problem solving. Many of the techniques in this article you will be able to use regularly for each major problem you address. Others you will use selectively.

http://www.virtualsalt.com/crebook4.htm

Problem Solving

Assembled by Carter McNamara, MBA, PhD

There are many approaches to problem solving, depending on the nature of the problem and the people involved in the problem. The more traditional, rational approach is typically used. However, another, more state-of-the-art approach is appreciative inquiry. That approach asserts that "problems" are often the result of our own perspectives on a phenomena.

http://www.managementhelp.net/prsn_prd/prob_slv.htm

Problem Solving and Analytical Techniques

The website introduces some useful techniques for problem solving and analysis, which includes Brainstorming, Critical Path Analysis, Decision Trees, Force Field Analysis, PMI and SWOT Analysis.

http://www.psychwww.com/mtsite/page2.html

The 7 steps to highly effective problem solving

By Rosemary Ann Ogilvie

Problem solving is a skill, a process with a beginning, where you identify and analyse the problem; a middle, where you consider a variety of solutions; and an end, where you implement your decision, and follow up and evaluate the results. To "shoot-from-the-hip" types tackling problems methodically and objectively may seem a painful, time-wasting exercise. However, in the long run, carefully defining and analysing problems actually saves time.

http://www.bbmagazine.com.au/articles200209/problem-solving.asp

Six Basic Steps in Problem Solving

Although this article talks about how to analyse a problem in sports, it describes the basic steps in solving other general problems in a systematic fashion.

http://www.safa.net/safa_general/index.asp?sectionid=47