1. Prepared by Mike Wicker July 2014
8 Steps of Structured Problem Solving
1. Define the Project
Do you know what the problem looks like?
The very first step is to go where the problem is and physically experience the problem
 Our initial focus is not on fixing the problem
 Our initial focus is on discovering the root cause of the problem
o We do this by focusing on PERFORMANCE, not possible causes
o We do this by systematically collecting clues and building a case
o Once we find the root cause, we will change our focus to fixing
the problem
2. Define a metric and develop a measurement system to evaluate PERFORMANCE
3. Identify examples of BEST and WORST PERFORMANCE
Understand population distribution
4. Define problem solving strategy
Best Strategy = Largest DIFFERENCE in Performance and MOST similarity
(Contrast) (Leverage)
5. Evaluate measurement system
6. Structured Experiments
 Discipline
 Collect Clues and Build a Case
 Focus on Performance – Not on Fixing the problem
7. Comparison of Features – Paired Comparison of the RED X Component
8. Confirmation Test
Notice that you do not even begin to ‘work’ on the problem (as many people define ’work’) until step 6.
Most people when solving problems jump right into experimentation and ignore the first 5 steps. This
is a mistake and almost always results in wasted time and effort.
In problem solving, the most effective use of your time is planning, organization and collecting clues.
“If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first six sharpening my axe.” - Abraham Lincoln