The document discusses problem solving and problem journeys. It defines problem solving as working through details to reach a solution, requiring abstract thinking and creative solutions. Key aspects are understanding the goal and balancing structure with creativity. Problem journeys focus more on following a process than applying minds to the content, wanting group buy-in of individual solutions rather than solving problems, and lack constructive problem solving by shooting down ideas. Problem journeys occur due to groupthink, where loyalty and harmony suppress dissenting views, leading to irrational decisions without considering alternatives.
3. The process of finding solutions to
problems
- Cambridge English Dictionary
The process of working through details of a problem to
reach a solution. Problem solving may include mathematical
or systematic operations and can be a gauge of an individual's
critical thinking skills.
- Business Dictionary
What is problem solving?
4. How do we effectively solve a problem?
Often the problem requires abstract thinking and coming up with a
creative solution
To solve problems we must deal with pragmatics (logic) and
semantics (interpretation of the problem)
Key to problem solving is the ability to understand what the goal of
the problem is
Most important aspect for an ill-defined problem
5. Balance between structure and creativity
Structured analytical process
• Process oriented with right/wrong
answers
• Engineering way – searching for an
“elegant solution”
• Can lead to limited and
unimaginative ideas
Creative brainstorming
• Free and open environment for
everyone to participate
• Quirky ideas welcomed and built
upon
• Increased richness of ideas
explored
6. What is problem journeying?
1
More focused on following a
process than applying minds to
content
2
Interested in having the group
buy an individual’s solution, not
solve the problem
3
Lack of constructive problem
solving – shooting ideas down
4
Insufficient focus on impact and
opportunity cost
Ineffective problem
solving
Groupthink
7. We problem journey because of the
psychological phenomenon groupthink
• Within a group of people
• Loyalty to the group
• Desire for harmony or
conformity
• Minimize conflict
• Actively suppressing
dissenting viewpoints
• Avoid raising
controversial issues or
alternative solutions
• Isolation from outside
influences
• Irrational or dysfunctional
decision-making outcome
• Reach a consensus
decision without critical
evaluation of alternative
viewpoints
• Loss of individual
creativity, uniqueness
and independent thinking
• Destructive “ingroup” vs.
“outgroup” dynamics
