how to overcome the barriers of problem solving

6 Common Problem Solving Barriers and How Can Managers Beat them?

What is the meaning of barriers to problem solving, what are the 6 barriers to problem solving, examples of barriers to problem solving, how to overcome problem solving barriers at work tips for managers, problem solving barriers faqs.

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Lack of motivation

Lack of knowledge, lack of resources, emotional barriers, cultural and societal barriers, fear of failure.

• Lack of motivation: A person who lacks motivation may struggle to complete tasks on time or produce quality work. For example, an employee who is disengaged from their job may procrastinate on essential tasks or show up late to work.
• Lack of knowledge : Employees who lack knowledge or training may be unable to perform their duties effectively. For example, a new employee unfamiliar with the company’s software systems may struggle to complete tasks on their computer.
• Lack of resources: Employees may be unable to complete their work due to a lack of resources, such as equipment or technology. For example, a graphic designer who doesn’t have access to the latest design software may struggle to produce high-quality designs.
• Emotional barriers: Emotional barriers can affect an employee’s ability to perform their job effectively. For example, an employee dealing with a personal issue, such as a divorce, may have trouble focusing on their work and meeting deadlines.
• Cultural and societal barriers: Cultural and societal barriers can affect an employee’s ability to work effectively. For example, an employee from a different culture may struggle to communicate effectively with colleagues or may feel uncomfortable in a work environment that is not inclusive.
• Fear of failure : Employees who fear failure may avoid taking on new challenges or may not take risks that could benefit the company. For example, an employee afraid of making mistakes may not take on a leadership role or hesitate to make decisions that could impact the company’s bottom line.
• Identify and Define the Problem: Define the problem and understand its root cause. This will help you identify the obstacles that are preventing effective problem solving.
• C ollaborate and Communicate: Work with others to gather information, generate new ideas, and share perspectives. Effective communication can help overcome misunderstandings and promote creative problem solving.
• Use Creative Problem Solving Techniques: Consider using creative problem solving techniques such as brainstorming, mind mapping, or SWOT analysis to explore new ideas and generate innovative solutions.
• Embrace Flexibility: Be open to new ideas and approaches. Embracing flexibility can help you overcome fixed mindsets and encourage creativity in problem solving.
• Invest in Resources: Ensure that you have access to the necessary resources, such as time, money, or personnel, to effectively solve complex problems.
• Emphasize Continuous Learning: Encourage continuous learning and improvement by seeking feedback, evaluating outcomes, and reflecting on the problem solving process. This can help you identify improvement areas and promote a continuous improvement culture.

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What are the five key obstacles to problem solving, can habits be a barrier to problem solving, how do you overcome barriers in problem solving.

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Problem-Solving Strategies and Obstacles

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Sean is a fact-checker and researcher with experience in sociology, field research, and data analytics.

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From deciding what to eat for dinner to considering whether it's the right time to buy a house, problem-solving is a large part of our daily lives. Learn some of the problem-solving strategies that exist and how to use them in real life, along with ways to overcome obstacles that are making it harder to resolve the issues you face.

What Is Problem-Solving?

In cognitive psychology , the term 'problem-solving' refers to the mental process that people go through to discover, analyze, and solve problems.

A problem exists when there is a goal that we want to achieve but the process by which we will achieve it is not obvious to us. Put another way, there is something that we want to occur in our life, yet we are not immediately certain how to make it happen.

Maybe you want a better relationship with your spouse or another family member but you're not sure how to improve it. Or you want to start a business but are unsure what steps to take. Problem-solving helps you figure out how to achieve these desires.

The problem-solving process involves:

• Discovery of the problem
• Deciding to tackle the issue
• Seeking to understand the problem more fully
• Researching available options or solutions
• Taking action to resolve the issue

Before problem-solving can occur, it is important to first understand the exact nature of the problem itself. If your understanding of the issue is faulty, your attempts to resolve it will also be incorrect or flawed.

Problem-Solving Mental Processes

Several mental processes are at work during problem-solving. Among them are:

• Perceptually recognizing the problem
• Representing the problem in memory
• Considering relevant information that applies to the problem
• Identifying different aspects of the problem
• Labeling and describing the problem

Problem-Solving Strategies

There are many ways to go about solving a problem. Some of these strategies might be used on their own, or you may decide to employ multiple approaches when working to figure out and fix a problem.

An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure that, by following certain "rules" produces a solution. Algorithms are commonly used in mathematics to solve division or multiplication problems. But they can be used in other fields as well.

In psychology, algorithms can be used to help identify individuals with a greater risk of mental health issues. For instance, research suggests that certain algorithms might help us recognize children with an elevated risk of suicide or self-harm.

One benefit of algorithms is that they guarantee an accurate answer. However, they aren't always the best approach to problem-solving, in part because detecting patterns can be incredibly time-consuming.

There are also concerns when machine learning is involved—also known as artificial intelligence (AI)—such as whether they can accurately predict human behaviors.

Heuristics are shortcut strategies that people can use to solve a problem at hand. These "rule of thumb" approaches allow you to simplify complex problems, reducing the total number of possible solutions to a more manageable set.

If you find yourself sitting in a traffic jam, for example, you may quickly consider other routes, taking one to get moving once again. When shopping for a new car, you might think back to a prior experience when negotiating got you a lower price, then employ the same tactics.

While heuristics may be helpful when facing smaller issues, major decisions shouldn't necessarily be made using a shortcut approach. Heuristics also don't guarantee an effective solution, such as when trying to drive around a traffic jam only to find yourself on an equally crowded route.

Trial and Error

A trial-and-error approach to problem-solving involves trying a number of potential solutions to a particular issue, then ruling out those that do not work. If you're not sure whether to buy a shirt in blue or green, for instance, you may try on each before deciding which one to purchase.

This can be a good strategy to use if you have a limited number of solutions available. But if there are many different choices available, narrowing down the possible options using another problem-solving technique can be helpful before attempting trial and error.

In some cases, the solution to a problem can appear as a sudden insight. You are facing an issue in a relationship or your career when, out of nowhere, the solution appears in your mind and you know exactly what to do.

Insight can occur when the problem in front of you is similar to an issue that you've dealt with in the past. Although, you may not recognize what is occurring since the underlying mental processes that lead to insight often happen outside of conscious awareness .

Research indicates that insight is most likely to occur during times when you are alone—such as when going on a walk by yourself, when you're in the shower, or when lying in bed after waking up.

How to Apply Problem-Solving Strategies in Real Life

If you're facing a problem, you can implement one or more of these strategies to find a potential solution. Here's how to use them in real life:

• Create a flow chart . If you have time, you can take advantage of the algorithm approach to problem-solving by sitting down and making a flow chart of each potential solution, its consequences, and what happens next.
• Recall your past experiences . When a problem needs to be solved fairly quickly, heuristics may be a better approach. Think back to when you faced a similar issue, then use your knowledge and experience to choose the best option possible.
• Start trying potential solutions . If your options are limited, start trying them one by one to see which solution is best for achieving your desired goal. If a particular solution doesn't work, move on to the next.
• Take some time alone . Since insight is often achieved when you're alone, carve out time to be by yourself for a while. The answer to your problem may come to you, seemingly out of the blue, if you spend some time away from others.

Obstacles to Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is not a flawless process as there are a number of obstacles that can interfere with our ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently. These obstacles include:

• Assumptions: When dealing with a problem, people can make assumptions about the constraints and obstacles that prevent certain solutions. Thus, they may not even try some potential options.
• Functional fixedness : This term refers to the tendency to view problems only in their customary manner. Functional fixedness prevents people from fully seeing all of the different options that might be available to find a solution.
• Irrelevant or misleading information: When trying to solve a problem, it's important to distinguish between information that is relevant to the issue and irrelevant data that can lead to faulty solutions. The more complex the problem, the easier it is to focus on misleading or irrelevant information.
• Mental set: A mental set is a tendency to only use solutions that have worked in the past rather than looking for alternative ideas. A mental set can work as a heuristic, making it a useful problem-solving tool. However, mental sets can also lead to inflexibility, making it more difficult to find effective solutions.

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

In the end, if your goal is to become a better problem-solver, it's helpful to remember that this is a process. Thus, if you want to improve your problem-solving skills, following these steps can help lead you to your solution:

• Recognize that a problem exists . If you are facing a problem, there are generally signs. For instance, if you have a mental illness , you may experience excessive fear or sadness, mood changes, and changes in sleeping or eating habits. Recognizing these signs can help you realize that an issue exists.
• Decide to solve the problem . Make a conscious decision to solve the issue at hand. Commit to yourself that you will go through the steps necessary to find a solution.
• Seek to fully understand the issue . Analyze the problem you face, looking at it from all sides. If your problem is relationship-related, for instance, ask yourself how the other person may be interpreting the issue. You might also consider how your actions might be contributing to the situation.
• Research potential options . Using the problem-solving strategies mentioned, research potential solutions. Make a list of options, then consider each one individually. What are some pros and cons of taking the available routes? What would you need to do to make them happen?
• Take action . Select the best solution possible and take action. Action is one of the steps required for change . So, go through the motions needed to resolve the issue.
• Try another option, if needed . If the solution you chose didn't work, don't give up. Either go through the problem-solving process again or simply try another option.

You can find a way to solve your problems as long as you keep working toward this goal—even if the best solution is simply to let go because no other good solution exists.

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By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Identifying Barriers to Problem-Solving in Psychology

Problem-solving is a key aspect of psychology, essential for understanding and overcoming challenges in our daily lives. There are common barriers that can hinder our ability to effectively solve problems. From mental blocks to confirmation bias, these obstacles can impede our progress.

In this article, we will explore the various barriers to problem-solving in psychology, as well as strategies to overcome them. By addressing these challenges head-on, we can unlock the benefits of improved problem-solving skills and mental agility.

• Identifying and overcoming barriers to problem-solving in psychology can lead to more effective and efficient solutions.
• Some common barriers include mental blocks, confirmation bias, and functional fixedness, which can all limit critical thinking and creativity.
• Mindfulness techniques, seeking different perspectives, and collaborating with others can help overcome these barriers and lead to more successful problem-solving.
• 1 What Is Problem-Solving in Psychology?
• 2 Why Is Problem-Solving Important in Psychology?
• 3.1 Mental Blocks
• 3.2 Confirmation Bias
• 3.3 Functional Fixedness
• 3.4 Lack of Creativity
• 3.5 Emotional Barriers
• 3.6 Cultural Influences
• 4.1 Divergent Thinking
• 4.2 Mindfulness Techniques
• 4.3 Seeking Different Perspectives
• 4.4 Challenging Assumptions
• 4.5 Collaborating with Others
• 5 What Are the Benefits of Overcoming These Barriers?
• 6 Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Problem-Solving in Psychology?

Problem-solving in psychology refers to the cognitive processes through which individuals identify and overcome obstacles or challenges to reach a desired goal, drawing on various mental processes and strategies.

In the realm of cognitive psychology, problem-solving is a key area of study that delves into how people use algorithms and heuristics to tackle complex issues. Algorithms are systematic step-by-step procedures that guarantee a solution, whereas heuristics are mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that provide efficient solutions, albeit without certainty. Understanding these mental processes is crucial in exploring how individuals approach different types of problems and make decisions based on their problem-solving strategies.

Why Is Problem-Solving Important in Psychology?

Problem-solving holds significant importance in psychology as it facilitates the discovery of new insights, enhances understanding of complex issues, and fosters effective actions based on informed decisions.

Assumptions play a crucial role in problem-solving processes, influencing how individuals perceive and approach challenges. By challenging these assumptions, individuals can break through mental barriers and explore creative solutions.

Functional fixedness, a cognitive bias where individuals restrict the use of objects to their traditional functions, can hinder problem-solving. Overcoming functional fixedness involves reevaluating the purpose of objects, leading to innovative problem-solving strategies.

Through problem-solving, psychologists uncover underlying patterns in behavior, delve into subconscious motivations, and offer practical interventions to improve mental well-being.

What Are the Common Barriers to Problem-Solving in Psychology?

In psychology, common barriers to problem-solving include mental blocks , confirmation bias , functional fixedness, lack of creativity, emotional barriers, and cultural influences that hinder the application of knowledge and resources to overcome challenges.

Mental blocks refer to the difficulty in generating new ideas or solutions due to preconceived notions or past experiences. Confirmation bias, on the other hand, is the tendency to search for, interpret, or prioritize information that confirms existing beliefs or hypotheses, while disregarding opposing evidence.

Functional fixedness limits problem-solving by constraining individuals to view objects or concepts in their traditional uses, inhibiting creative approaches. Lack of creativity impedes the ability to think outside the box and consider unconventional solutions.

Emotional barriers such as fear, stress, or anxiety can halt progress by clouding judgment and hindering clear decision-making. Cultural influences may introduce unique perspectives or expectations that clash with effective problem-solving strategies, complicating the resolution process.

Mental Blocks

Mental blocks in problem-solving occur when individuals struggle to consider all relevant information, fall into a fixed mental set, or become fixated on irrelevant details, hindering progress and creative solutions.

For instance, irrelevant information can lead to mental blocks by distracting individuals from focusing on the key elements required to solve a problem effectively. This could involve getting caught up in minor details that have no real impact on the overall solution. A fixed mental set, formed by previous experiences or patterns, can limit one’s ability to approach a problem from new perspectives, restricting innovative thinking.

Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias, a common barrier in problem-solving, leads individuals to seek information that confirms their existing knowledge or assumptions, potentially overlooking contradictory data and hindering objective analysis.

This cognitive bias affects decision-making and problem-solving processes by creating a tendency to favor information that aligns with one’s beliefs, rather than considering all perspectives.

• One effective method to mitigate confirmation bias is by actively challenging assumptions through critical thinking.
• By questioning the validity of existing beliefs and seeking out diverse viewpoints, individuals can counteract the tendency to only consider information that confirms their preconceptions.
• Another strategy is to promote a culture of open-mindedness and encourage constructive debate within teams to foster a more comprehensive evaluation of data.

Functional Fixedness

Functional fixedness restricts problem-solving by limiting individuals to conventional uses of objects, impeding the discovery of innovative solutions and hindering the application of insightful approaches to challenges.

For instance, when faced with a task that requires a candle to be mounted on a wall to provide lighting, someone bound by functional fixedness may struggle to see the potential solution of using the candle wax as an adhesive instead of solely perceiving the candle’s purpose as a light source.

This mental rigidity often leads individuals to overlook unconventional or creative methods, which can stifle their ability to find effective problem-solving strategies.

To combat this cognitive limitation, fostering divergent thinking, encouraging experimentation, and promoting flexibility in approaching tasks can help individuals break free from functional fixedness and unlock their creativity.

Lack of Creativity

A lack of creativity poses a significant barrier to problem-solving, limiting the potential for improvement and hindering flexible thinking required to generate novel solutions and address complex challenges.

When individuals are unable to think outside the box and explore unconventional approaches, they may find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns without breakthroughs.

Flexibility is key to overcoming this hurdle, allowing individuals to adapt their perspectives, pivot when necessary, and consider multiple viewpoints to arrive at innovative solutions.

Encouraging a culture that embraces experimentation, values diverse ideas, and fosters an environment of continuous learning can fuel creativity and push problem-solving capabilities to new heights.

Emotional Barriers

Emotional barriers, such as fear of failure, can impede problem-solving by creating anxiety, reducing risk-taking behavior, and hindering effective collaboration with others, limiting the exploration of innovative solutions.

When individuals are held back by the fear of failure, it often stems from a deep-seated worry about making mistakes or being judged negatively. This fear can lead to hesitation in decision-making processes and reluctance to explore unconventional approaches, ultimately hindering the ability to discover creative solutions. To overcome this obstacle, it is essential to cultivate a positive emotional environment that fosters trust, resilience, and open communication among team members. Encouraging a mindset that embraces failure as a stepping stone to success can enable individuals to take risks, learn from setbacks, and collaborate effectively to overcome challenges.

Cultural Influences

Cultural influences can act as barriers to problem-solving by imposing rigid norms, limiting flexibility in thinking, and hindering effective communication and collaboration among diverse individuals with varying perspectives.

When individuals from different cultural backgrounds come together to solve problems, the ingrained values and beliefs they hold can shape their approaches and methods.

For example, in some cultures, decisiveness and quick decision-making are highly valued, while in others, a consensus-building process is preferred.

Understanding and recognizing these differences is crucial for navigating through the cultural barriers that might arise during collaborative problem-solving.

How Can These Barriers Be Overcome?

These barriers to problem-solving in psychology can be overcome through various strategies such as divergent thinking, mindfulness techniques, seeking different perspectives, challenging assumptions, and collaborating with others to leverage diverse insights and foster critical thinking.

Engaging in divergent thinking , which involves generating multiple solutions or viewpoints for a single issue, can help break away from conventional problem-solving methods. By encouraging a free flow of ideas without immediate judgment, individuals can explore innovative paths that may lead to breakthrough solutions. Actively seeking diverse perspectives from individuals with varied backgrounds, experiences, and expertise can offer fresh insights that challenge existing assumptions and broaden the problem-solving scope. This diversity of viewpoints can spark creativity and unconventional approaches that enhance problem-solving outcomes.

Divergent Thinking

Divergent thinking enhances problem-solving by encouraging creative exploration of multiple solutions, breaking habitual thought patterns, and fostering flexibility in generating innovative ideas to address challenges.

When individuals engage in divergent thinking, they open up their minds to various possibilities and perspectives. Instead of being constrained by conventional norms, a person might ideate freely without limitations. This leads to out-of-the-box solutions that can revolutionize how problems are approached. Divergent thinking sparks creativity by allowing unconventional ideas to surface and flourish.

For example, imagine a team tasked with redesigning a city park. Instead of sticking to traditional layouts, they might brainstorm wild concepts like turning the park into a futuristic playground, a pop-up art gallery space, or a wildlife sanctuary. Such diverse ideas stem from divergent thinking and push boundaries beyond the ordinary.

Mindfulness Techniques

Mindfulness techniques can aid problem-solving by promoting present-moment awareness, reducing cognitive biases, and fostering a habit of continuous learning that enhances adaptability and open-mindedness in addressing challenges.

Engaging in regular mindfulness practices encourages individuals to stay grounded in the current moment, allowing them to detach from preconceived notions and biases that could cloud judgment. By cultivating a non-judgmental attitude towards thoughts and emotions, people develop the capacity to observe situations from a neutral perspective, facilitating clearer decision-making processes. Mindfulness techniques facilitate the development of a growth mindset, where one acknowledges mistakes as opportunities for learning and improvement rather than failures.

Seeking Different Perspectives

Seeking different perspectives in problem-solving involves tapping into diverse resources, engaging in effective communication, and considering alternative viewpoints to broaden understanding and identify innovative solutions to complex issues.

Collaboration among individuals with various backgrounds and experiences can offer fresh insights and approaches to tackling challenges. By fostering an environment where all voices are valued and heard, teams can leverage the collective wisdom and creativity present in diverse perspectives. For example, in the tech industry, companies like Google encourage cross-functional teams to work together, harnessing diverse skill sets to develop groundbreaking technologies.

To incorporate diverse viewpoints, one can implement brainstorming sessions that involve individuals from different departments or disciplines to encourage out-of-the-box thinking. Another effective method is to conduct surveys or focus groups to gather input from a wide range of stakeholders and ensure inclusivity in decision-making processes.

Challenging Assumptions

Challenging assumptions is a key strategy in problem-solving, as it prompts individuals to critically evaluate preconceived notions, gain new insights, and expand their knowledge base to approach challenges from fresh perspectives.

By questioning established beliefs or ways of thinking, individuals open the door to innovative solutions and original perspectives. Stepping outside the boundaries of conventional wisdom enables problem solvers to see beyond limitations and explore uncharted territories. This process not only fosters creativity but also encourages a culture of continuous improvement where learning thrives. Daring to challenge assumptions can unveil hidden opportunities and untapped potential in problem-solving scenarios, leading to breakthroughs and advancements that were previously overlooked.

• One effective technique to challenge assumptions is through brainstorming sessions that encourage participants to voice unconventional ideas without judgment.
• Additionally, adopting a beginner’s mindset can help in questioning assumptions, as newcomers often bring a fresh perspective unburdened by past biases.

Collaborating with Others

Collaborating with others in problem-solving fosters flexibility, encourages open communication, and leverages collective intelligence to navigate complex challenges, drawing on diverse perspectives and expertise to generate innovative solutions.

Effective collaboration enables individuals to combine strengths and talents, pooling resources to tackle problems that may seem insurmountable when approached individually. By working together, team members can break down barriers and silos that often hinder progress, leading to more efficient problem-solving processes and better outcomes.

Collaboration also promotes a sense of shared purpose and increases overall engagement, as team members feel valued and enableed to contribute their unique perspectives. To foster successful collaboration, it is crucial to establish clear goals, roles, and communication channels, ensuring that everyone is aligned towards a common objective.

What Are the Benefits of Overcoming These Barriers?

Overcoming the barriers to problem-solving in psychology leads to significant benefits such as improved critical thinking skills, enhanced knowledge acquisition, and the ability to address complex issues with greater creativity and adaptability.

By mastering the art of problem-solving, individuals in the field of psychology can also cultivate resilience and perseverance, two essential traits that contribute to personal growth and success.

When confronting and overcoming cognitive obstacles, individuals develop a deeper understanding of their own cognitive processes and behavioral patterns, enabling them to make informed decisions and overcome challenges more effectively.

Continuous learning and adaptability play a pivotal role in problem-solving, allowing psychologists to stay updated with the latest research, techniques, and methodologies that enhance their problem-solving capabilities.

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More From Forbes

The five pitfalls of problem-solving - and how to avoid them.

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Even experienced leaders make surprising and costly mistakes when solving complex problems and ... [+] selling their solutions.

Of the many skills leaders need to be effective, research consistently shows that complex problem solving is paramount. For most of us, however, solving difficult problems and selling the solutions doesn’t come naturally since we haven’t been taught how to do it well. And when we try, obstacles abound.

Through our research, teaching and consulting, we’ve identified five pitfalls that frequently trip up business leaders when they tackle complex problems. If we want to be better leaders, we must understand these pitfalls and how to overcome them.

Pitfall 1: Flawed problem definition

When digitalization swept through the music industry, record companies reacted by fighting a court battle against illegal file sharing. They won, forcing Napster to unplug in 2001. But it was a pyrrhic victory. By 2010, two-thirds of their revenues had evaporated.

At the heart of this disaster was the way music industry executives viewed file sharing. To them, it was simple piracy, and they stated the problem accordingly: “How do we stop this piracy?”

A different and more productive problem statement would have been: “How can we make money in a world of digital music?” One company – Apple – asked this question, laying the groundwork for the phenomenally successful iPod, iPhone and iTunes store.

iTunes music gift cards of different values displayed for sale. (Photo by Roberto Machado ... [+] Noa/LightRocket via Getty Images)

The contrast between the record companies and Apple illustrates the importance of stating the right problem. A flawed problem definition , which often happens when you think you recognize a situation from past experience, puts you on a glide path to irrelevant solutions.

A practical way to state a problem is to use the TOSCA checklist by answering the following questions:

• T rouble: What indicates the current situation is not the desired one?
• O wner: Who is responsible for its resolution?
• S uccess: What will success look like and when?
• C onstraints: What are the binding constraints on developing a solution?
• A ctors: Who are the relevant stakeholders?

This checklist helps you understand the various facets of the problem. You can then use your answers to develop the core question that will guide your solution-development efforts.

Pitfall 2: Solution confirmation

In October 2005, Muhammad Yunus, Nobel laureate and father of microfinance, met with Franck Riboud, CEO of Danone. With a handshake, they agreed to team up to fight childhood malnutrition in Bangladesh, one of the world’s poorest countries.

With virtually no investigation or experimentation, Danone quickly developed a nutrition-packed yogurt called Shokti Doi (energy yogurt) and the business model for it as the solution to the problem. The Grameen Danone Foods Limited (GDFL) joint venture began production in February 2007.

GDFL’s performance, however, didn’t live up to the founders’ expectations .  Despite several re-organization efforts, by 2015 GDFL was producing at only two-thirds capacity. Supermarkets in middle-class urban areas accounted for the vast majority of sales, while the impact on poor communities was marginal.

GDFL had fallen prey to the solution confirmation pitfall . Rather than start by understanding the problem —child malnutrition— to find relevant solutions, the two organizations quickly zeroed in on a candidate solution they assumed would work because it combined Danone’s yogurt production expertise with Grameen’s marketing clout. A desire to move quickly coupled with strong executive support deterred anyone from challenging the hypotheses that underpinned the solution.

To avoid this pitfall, you must structure the problem. Start with the core question you are attempting to answer from problem statement. Break this core question down into as many non-overlapping sub-questions (elementary issues) as possible. You can then investigate them one by one in search for adequate solutions.

Pitfall 3: Wrong framework

Through a consulting project, we came to know Lisa, the HR Director at a call center company. Because of high employee turnover, recruiting and training costs had spiraled out of control. Lisa was considering contracting with an HR analytics firm that promised, thanks to machine-learning algorithms, to identify the personality traits associated with longer employee tenure and to select applicants with those characteristics. The firm had impressive references from clients who it helped achieve significant increases in retention rates.

While Lisa wondered whether she should become a client, something troubled her. After some reflection, she put her finger on it. The analytics firm was forcing her to think of the problem in a specific way, to use a specific lens. While it offered a framework to address the retention issue, this framework used an unstated, disputable assumption – that retention is linked to employee personality.

To test this assumption, Lisa conducted some exit interviews and discovered employees were leaving because of low pay, poor working conditions, and brutal management. Employees who stayed did so largely because they couldn’t find jobs elsewhere.

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Lisa realized that if the analytics firm’s predictive model worked as advertised, it would identify the personality traits of employees that other employers wouldn’t hire and select for those traits in applicants! While this could result in lower turnover, it may also lead to lower job performance—a critical factor that hadn’t been part of the discussion.

This story highlights the third pitfall of problem solving: using the wrong framework . Frameworks tell us what to pay attention to in a particular situation; but by suggesting what we should attend to, they also tell us what to ignore. Our choice of frameworks can blind us to important aspects of a problem, leading us to develop ineffective solutions.

Be careful not to blindly apply frameworks to a problem simply because you’re familiar with them. When using frameworks to structure a problem, make sure their assumptions fit your problem.

Pitfall 4: Narrow framing

In June 2011, American department store chain J.C. Penney announced that Ron Johnson, head of Apple’s wildly successful retail stores, would become Penney’s new CEO. The stock market reacted by bidding up Penney’s share price 17.5%. Johnson’s mission was to turn around the ailing retailer, which had seen its sales, profits and stock price steadily erode.

Ron Johnson announces the new J.C. Penney strategy at the J.C. Penney launch event at Pier 57 on ... [+] January 25, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for jcpenney)

Johnson quickly pursued changes that were a dramatic departure from what Penney’s customers expected from the century-old retailer. He eliminated sales promotions and replaced them with a simple, everyday low-pricing approach. He transformed Penney’s from a crowded and cluttered department store selling many of its own labels organized by product type to a collection of 100 boutiques spaciously organized by well-known brands. Store employees were encouraged to dress in their own style and outfitted with hand-held checkout devices. The company communicated these changes as part of a major rebranding effort.

The return on this investment of hundreds of millions of dollars became clear when Penney’s announced its 2012 results. They were awful. Same-store sales fell 25% from the previous year and Penney’s recorded a $1 billion loss. By April 2013 Johnson was out as CEO, only 18 months after he started.

Johnson’s misfortune illustrates the narrow framing pitfall . When we tackle a complex problem that we superficially understand, it’s tempting to frame it narrowly to make it look like one we’ve worked on before. We can then reason by analogy to quickly identify a solution instead of investing in thoroughly understanding the problem.

Johnson ignored his superficial understanding of Penney’s customers and quickly jumped to an Apple-inspired solution—undiscounted, branded merchandise sold in a hip setting by quirky salespeople supported by a fresh, minimalist brand. The assumption, which proved to be wrong, was that Penney’s customers were like Apple Store customers. This assumption also explains why Johnson didn’t see a need to pilot-test his solution. If Apple Store and Penney’s customers are similar, what worked at Apple will work at J.C. Penney.

When we face complex problems involving customers or users we understand poorly, we should avoid narrowly framing them by analogy to other situations. Instead, we should use a design thinking approach to solve them, starting with understanding the problem from the perspective of the people who experience it. Doing so can help us identify opportunities for solutions that we would otherwise miss. We can then prototype multiple potential solutions and test them with real users, rather than “bet the farm” on one idea that may not work.

Pitfall 5: Miscommunication

Recent research shows the main cause of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease is the overconsumption of sugar—not fat. British scientist John Yudkin made this discovery in the late 1950s, but policy-makers largely ignored his findings. When Yudkin died in 1995, his research had long been forgotten . Until scientists rediscovered the role of sugar in the 2000s, nutritionists and public health authorities issued dietary guidelines primarily focused on reducing saturated fat consumption.

How did they get it so wrong for so long? One of the main reasons was that Yudkin was wholly unpersuasive. Although Yudkin was an internationally recognized nutritionist, his story was counterintuitive, especially to lay people: how could sugar generate more harmful fat in the body than fat itself?

In contrast, his rival, Ancel Keys, had a flawed story – focused on fat – but did a beautiful job of selling it to both scientists and policy makers. Keys also fought Yudkin ruthlessly, calling his theory “a mountain of nonsense,” and accusing him of issuing propaganda for the meat and dairy industries.

This example illustrates a well-known point: communication is critical to motivate action. Solving the problem is worthless if you can’t sell your solution to decision makers. This happens far too often in organizations, where reports are reviewed, archived and forgotten, with no tangible impact.

But Keys’s story shows the opposite problem can be even more harmful: brilliant communication of the wrong answer can lead to misguided and detrimental action. This is why the approach to selling the solution must be grounded in the problem solving process. The evidence from the problem-solving process must provide the rationale for the recommended solution, which must address the core question from the problem statement and each element of the TOSCA checklist.

How to Solve the Toughest Business Problems

As these five stories illustrate, even experienced leaders make surprising and costly mistakes when solving complex problems and selling their solutions. But these pitfalls are not without preventive measures. Following a disciplined method can help you avoid the pitfalls and develop and sell better solutions. In our new book,  Cracked It! How to Solve Big Problems and Sell Solutions Like Top Strategy Consultants , we provide a step-by-step process and toolkit to help readers tackle challenging business problems. We guide you through each step in our 4S method: from how to state, structure and then solve problems to how to sell the solutions.

While the idea of a structured problem-solving process may not sound exciting, the guidance and discipline it provides can give leaders the confidence and ability to crack the problems that matter most to their organizations.

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27 Problem-solving strategies to turn challenges on their head

Problems come in all shapes and sizes — from workplace conflict to budget cuts. Creative problem-solving techniques are highly in demand and critical for success across industries. By focusing on defining the problem, identifying its root cause, and considering multiple problem-solving methods, you can solve issues effectively. The ability to tackle problems head-on is essential, and using proven strategies will help you find the best solutions. Let’s explore a five-step process, paired with additional techniques, to enhance your ability to solve even the most complex challenges.

What is an example of problem-solving?

Good problem-solving is key to the decision-making process . For example, a SaaS company experiencing high churn rates might define the problem as poor customer engagement in email marketing campaigns.

To resolve this, the team could brainstorm and ask questions about customer behavior, analyze their marketing tactics, and test new offers or discounts to retain customers. This process emphasizes the importance of evaluating and identifying the root causes to achieve a desired outcome.

5 steps to problem-solving

Perhaps you’ve got a problem you need to tackle. Or maybe you want to be prepared the next time one arises. Either way, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the five steps of problem-solving. 

Use this step-by-step problem-solving method with the strategies in the following section to find possible solutions to your problem.

1. Identify the problem

Start by defining the problem and gathering as much data as possible. Separate facts from opinions, ask relevant questions, and establish a clear situation or problem statement .

Use rational persuasion to make sure your team agrees .

2. Break the problem down 

Identifying the problem allows you to see which steps need to be taken to solve it. Once identified, break the problem into smaller, manageable parts. This step prevents jumping to conclusions and allows you to work systematically.

Then,  strategic planning  should be used to set a time frame for solving the problem and establish a timeline for the completion of each stage.

3. Generate potential solutions

At this stage, the aim isn’t to evaluate possible solutions but to generate as many ideas as possible. 

Use brainstorming and other creative techniques like the six thinking hats. At this stage, aim to involve your team to expand your perspectives and generate various alternatives.

Encourage your team to use creative thinking and be patient — the best solution may not be the first or most obvious one.

4. Evaluate the possible solutions

Use criteria such as feasibility and alignment with organizational goals to narrow down your options. Conduct an evaluation to determine which solution is most likely to solve the problem.

There are usually many factors to consider. So when evaluating a solution, ask yourself the following questions:

• Will my team be on board with the proposition?
• Does the solution align with organizational goals ?
• Is the solution likely to achieve the desired outcomes?
• Is the solution realistic and possible with current resources and constraints?
• Will the solution solve the problem without causing additional unintended problems?

5. Implement and monitor the solutions

Once a solution is chosen, ensure its successful implementation. Then, monitor its progress, ensuring that feedback is collected and that the solution resolves the issue without causing unintended problems.

Request regular feedback from the team members involved and have a monitoring and evaluation plan in place to measure progress.

If the solution doesn’t achieve your desired results, start this step-by-step process again.

27 effective problem-solving strategies

There are many different ways to approach problem-solving. Each is suitable for different types of problems. 

The most appropriate problem-solving techniques will depend on your specific problem. You may need to experiment with several strategies before you find a workable solution.

Here are 27 effective problem-solving strategies for you to try:

• Use a solution that worked before
• Brainstorming
• Work backward
• Use the Kipling method
• Draw the problem
• Use trial and error
• Sleep on it
• Get advice from your peers
• Use the Pareto principle
• Add successful solutions to your toolkit
• Define the problem
• Implement the solution
• Identify the problem
• Solution evaluation
• Identify possible causes
• SWOT analysis
• Generate alternatives
• Means-end analysis
• Solution development
• Build your problem-solving skills
• Divide and conquer
• Evaluate the outcome
• Guess and check
• Make a list
• Read the problem aloud

Let’s break each of these down.

1. Use a solution that worked before

It might seem obvious, but if you’ve faced similar problems in the past, look back to what worked then. See if any of the solutions could apply to your current situation and, if so, replicate them.

2. Brainstorming

The more people you enlist to help solve the problem, the more potential solutions you can come up with.

Use different brainstorming techniques to workshop potential solutions with your team. They’ll likely bring something you haven’t thought of to the table.

3. Work backward

Working backward is a way to reverse engineer your problem. Imagine your problem has been solved, and make that the starting point.

Then, retrace your steps back to where you are now. This can help you see which course of action may be most effective.

4. Use the Kipling method

This is a method that poses six questions based on Rudyard Kipling’s poem, “ I Keep Six Honest Serving Men .” 

• What is the problem?
• Why is the problem important?
• When did the problem arise, and when does it need to be solved?
• How did the problem happen?
• Where is the problem occurring?
• Who does the problem affect?

Answering these questions can help you identify possible solutions.

5. Draw the problem

Sometimes it can be difficult to visualize all the components and moving parts of a problem and its solution. Drawing a diagram can help.

This technique is particularly helpful for solving process-related problems. For example, a product development team might want to decrease the time they take to fix bugs and create new iterations. Drawing the processes involved can help you see where improvements can be made.

6. Use trial-and-error

A trial-and-error approach can be useful when you have several possible solutions and want to test them to see which one works best.

7. Sleep on it

Finding the best solution to a problem is a process. Remember to take breaks and get enough rest . Sometimes, a walk around the block can bring inspiration, but you should sleep on it if possible.

A good night’s sleep helps us find creative solutions to problems. This is because when you sleep, your brain sorts through the day’s events and stores them as memories. This enables you to process your ideas at a subconscious level. 

If possible, give yourself a few days to develop and analyze possible solutions. You may find you have greater clarity after sleeping on it. Your mind will also be fresh, so you’ll be able to make better decisions.

8. Get advice from your peers

Getting input from a group of people can help you find solutions you may not have thought of on your own. 

For solo entrepreneurs or freelancers, this might look like hiring a coach or mentor or joining a mastermind group. 

For leaders , it might be consulting other members of the leadership team or working with a business coach .

It’s important to recognize you might not have all the skills, experience, or knowledge necessary to find a solution alone. 

9. Use the Pareto principle

The Pareto principle — also known as the 80/20 rule — can help you identify possible root causes and potential solutions for your problems.

Although it’s not a mathematical law, it’s a principle found throughout many aspects of business and life. For example, 20% of the sales reps in a company might close 80% of the sales. 

You may be able to narrow down the causes of your problem by applying the Pareto principle. This can also help you identify the most appropriate solutions.

10. Add successful solutions to your toolkit

Every situation is different, and the same solutions might not always work. But by keeping a record of successful problem-solving strategies, you can build up a solutions toolkit. 

These solutions may be applicable to future problems. Even if not, they may save you some of the time and work needed to come up with a new solution.

11. Define the problem

Clarity is key. Break down the issue and analyze each component. This crucial first step ensures you're addressing the right problem, saving valuable time and resources.

12. Implement the solution

Once you've decided on a course of action , it's time to execute. Set clear steps, delegate responsibilities, and keep a close eye on progress. Getting all stakeholders on board is essential for achieving desired outcomes.

13. Identify the problem

Dig deep to find the root cause. This approach helps you focus on the real issue, avoiding unnecessary detours and ensuring you're not just treating symptoms.

14. Solution evaluation

After implementation, take a step back and assess. Did it solve the problem as expected? What was the impact? This reflection allows you to learn and apply insights to future challenges.

15. Identify possible causes

Once you've defined the problem, brainstorm potential sources. Consider various factors like processes, team dynamics, or external variables. This step is vital for accurate diagnosis.

16. SWOT analysis

Break down the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related to the issue. This structured approach offers a comprehensive perspective, clarifying the context for better decision-making.

17. Five Whys

Ask "Why?" five times (or more) to drill down to the root cause. It's a simple yet powerful technique for unraveling complex issues and finding fundamental solutions.

18. Generate alternatives

Don't settle for the first idea. Use brainstorming or other methods to create multiple options. Having a range of choices ensures you can select the most effective approach.

19. Means-end analysis

Compare your current situation to the desired outcome, then identify the steps needed to bridge that gap. This systematic method helps structure your solution path.

20. Solution development

After generating potential alternatives, refine them into actionable plans. Weigh the pros and cons , consider feasibility, and align your approach with available resources and objectives.

21. Build your problem-solving skills

Continuous improvement is crucial. Engage in regular practice, learn new methods, and seek peer feedback . This ongoing development enhances your ability to tackle increasingly complex issues.

22. Divide and conquer

When faced with a complex issue, break it into smaller, more manageable parts. This method allows you to tackle each component individually, making the overall process less daunting.

23. Evaluate the outcome

Once a solution is in place, assess its impact. Did it solve the problem as expected? What lessons can be learned? This evaluation is key for continuous improvement.

24. Guess and check

For smaller, low-risk problems, don't be afraid to make an educated guess and test it. This trial-and-error approach can quickly lead to effective solutions in certain situations.

25. Heuristics

These mental shortcuts or rules of thumb can simplify decision-making. While not guaranteeing perfect results, they're useful for quick decisions when time or information is limited.

26. Make a list

Sometimes, the simplest methods are the most effective. Listing potential causes, solutions, or actions helps organize thoughts and ensures nothing is overlooked.

27. Read the problem aloud

When feeling overwhelmed or paralyzed by decision fatigue , vocalize the issue. This technique forces you to articulate the problem clearly, potentially revealing insights you hadn't noticed before.

What skills do efficient problem solvers have?

Improving problem-solving skills is essential for professional development — both yours and your team’s. Here are some of the key skills of effective problem solvers:

• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Communication skills , including active listening
• Decision-making
• Planning and prioritization
• Emotional intelligence , including empathy and emotional regulation
• Time management
• Data analysis
• Research skills
• Project management

And they see problems as opportunities. Everyone is born with problem-solving skills. But accessing these abilities depends on how we view problems. Effective problem-solvers see problems as opportunities to learn and improve.

How to improve your problem-solving skills

Ready to work on your problem-solving abilities? Get started with these seven tips.

1. Build your problem-solving skills

One of the best ways to improve your problem-solving skills is to learn from experts. Consider enrolling in organizational training , shadowing a mentor , or working with a coach . Practice problem-solving techniques in real-world scenarios. Focus on learning new methods like functional fixedness or the Pareto principle to expand your skillset.

2. Practice

Practice using your new problem-solving skills by applying them to smaller problems you might encounter in your daily life. 

Alternatively, imagine problematic scenarios that might arise at work and use problem-solving strategies to find hypothetical solutions.

3. Don’t try to find a solution right away

Often, the first solution you think of to solve a problem isn’t the most appropriate or effective.

Instead of thinking on the spot, give yourself time and use one or more of the problem-solving strategies above to activate your creative thinking. 

4. Ask for feedback

Receiving feedback is always important for learning and growth. Your perception of your problem-solving skills may be different from that of your colleagues. They can provide insights that help you improve. 

5. Learn new approaches and methodologies

There are entire books written about problem-solving methodologies if you want to take a deep dive into the subject. 

We recommend starting with reading about problem-solving methodologies, such as Six Thinking Hats or “ Fixed — How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem Solving ” by Amy E. Herman. 

6. Experiment

Tried-and-tested problem-solving techniques can be useful. However, they don’t teach you how to innovate and develop your own problem-solving approaches. 

Sometimes, an unconventional approach can lead to the development of a brilliant new idea or strategy. So don’t be afraid to suggest your most “out there” ideas. Creativity and out-of-the-box thinking can drive success.

7. Analyze the success of your competitors

Do you have competitors who have already solved the problem you’re facing? Look at what they did, and work backward to solve your own problem. 

For example, Netflix started in the 1990s as a DVD mail-rental company. Its main competitor at the time was Blockbuster. 

But when streaming became the norm in the early 2000s, both companies faced a crisis. Netflix innovated, unveiling its streaming service in 2007. 

If Blockbuster had followed Netflix’s example, it might have survived. Instead, it declared bankruptcy in 2010.

Use problem-solving strategies to push past blockers

When facing a problem, it’s worth taking the time to find the right solution. 

Otherwise, we risk either running away from our problems or headlong into solutions. When we do this, we might miss out on other, better options.

Use the problem-solving strategies outlined above to find innovative solutions to your business’ most perplexing problems.

If you’re ready to take problem-solving to the next level, try parenting with a BetterUp Coach . Our expert coaches specialize in helping teams develop and implement strategies that work.

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

What are metacognitive skills? Examples in everyday life

5 problem-solving questions to prepare you for your next interview, 8 creative solutions to your most challenging problems, the pareto principle: how the 80/20 rule can help you do more with less, leadership activities that encourage employee engagement, learn what process mapping is and how to create one (+ examples), adjusting your vision for 2024, how to create a work plan (with template), can dreams help you solve problems 6 ways to try, thinking outside the box: 8 ways to become a creative problem solver, 31 examples of problem solving performance review phrases, 3 problem statement examples and steps to write your own, 10 examples of principles that can guide your approach to work, contingency planning: 4 steps to prepare for the unexpected, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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Barriers to Effective Problem Solving

Learning how to effectively solve problems is difficult and takes time and continual adaptation. There are several common barriers to successful CPS, including:

• Confirmation Bias: The tendency to only search for or interpret information that confirms a person’s existing ideas. People misinterpret or disregard data that doesn’t align with their beliefs.
• Mental Set: People’s inclination to solve problems using the same tactics they have used to solve problems in the past. While this can sometimes be a useful strategy (see Analogical Thinking in a later section), it often limits inventiveness and creativity.
• Functional Fixedness: This is another form of narrow thinking, where people become “stuck” thinking in a certain way and are unable to be flexible or change perspective.
• Unnecessary Constraints: When people are overwhelmed with a problem, they can invent and impose additional limits on solution avenues. To avoid doing this, maintain a structured, level-headed approach to evaluating causes, effects, and potential solutions.
• Groupthink: Be wary of the tendency for group members to agree with each other — this might be out of conflict avoidance, path of least resistance, or fear of speaking up. While this agreeableness might make meetings run smoothly, it can actually stunt creativity and idea generation, therefore limiting the success of your chosen solution.
• Irrelevant Information: The tendency to pile on multiple problems and factors that may not even be related to the challenge at hand. This can cloud the team’s ability to find direct, targeted solutions.
• Paradigm Blindness : This is found in people who are unwilling to adapt or change their worldview, outlook on a particular problem, or typical way of processing information. This can erode the effectiveness of problem solving techniques because they are not aware of the narrowness of their thinking, and therefore cannot think or act outside of their comfort zone.

According to Jaffa, the primary barrier of effective problem solving is rigidity. “The most common things people say are, ‘We’ve never done it before,’ or ‘We’ve always done it this way.’” While these feelings are natural, Jaffa explains that this rigid thinking actually precludes teams from identifying creative, inventive solutions that result in the greatest benefit. “The biggest barrier to creative problem solving is a lack of awareness – and commitment to – training employees in state-of-the-art creative problem-solving techniques,” Mattimore explains. “We teach our clients how to use ideation techniques (as many as two-dozen different creative thinking techniques) to help them generate more and better ideas. Ideation techniques use specific and customized stimuli, or ‘thought triggers’ to inspire new thinking and new ideas.” MacLeod adds that ineffective or rushed leadership is another common culprit. “We're always in a rush to fix quickly,” she says. “Sometimes leaders just solve problems themselves, making unilateral decisions to save time. But the investment is well worth it — leaders will have less on their plates if they can teach and eventually trust the team to resolve. Teams feel empowered and engagement and investment increases.”

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