This document outlines a generic problem solving model with 12 steps: 1) evaluate current paradigm, 2) brainstorm potential problems, 3) identify primary problem, 4) gather and analyze data, 5) brainstorm potential causes, 6) brainstorm possible solutions, 7) develop implementation plan, 8) gain organizational commitment, 9) implement solution, 10) measure and monitor results, 11) identify primary causes, and 12) identify primary solution. Selection criteria are used to narrow lists at various steps in the process.

1. Generic Problem Solving Model
© 2013 Philip M. Calvano
• Paradigm Evaluation: is the old way still applicable?
• Brainstorm Problem (List Potential Problems)
• Identify Primary Problem (Develop Selection Criteria/Filters/Spreadsheet)
• Gather Data, Analyze Data
• Brainstorm Potential Causes
• Brainstorm Possible Solutions (List Potential Problems)
• Develop Implementation Plan
• Gain Organizational Commitment
• Implement Solution
• Measure and Monitor
• Identify Primary Causes (Narrow List, Develop
Selection Criteria/Filters/Spreadsheet)
• Identify Primary Solution (Narrow List, Develop Selection Criteria/Filters)
• Develop Problem Statement:
 Current State:
 Impact of Problem:
• Develop Problem Statement:
 Current State:
Narrow
List
Narrow
List
Narrow
List
Expand
List
Expand
List
Expand
List
(Selection grid (spreadsheet) generates more
discussion than multi-voting (Group decides on
each block in grid)--use [Brackets] when
narrowing a list. Items in brackets are not
deleted, just identified as not as important to
the team’s goal)
• Develop Problem Statement:
 Current State:
 Impact of Problem:
 Desired State/Outcome:
(Use Contingency Diagram)
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