Page 177 - FLL Virtual Binder 2018

Problem Solving Tools and Techniques
Problem solving is the ability of team members to develop creative solutions to pressing organizational challenges in order to deliver quality to their customers. A deviation from standard is considered a problem and an opportunity for continuous improvement. A team’s problem solving activities include:
1. Identifying the root cause of the problem.
2. Generating numerous ideas and possible counter measures.
3. Building on those ideas.
4. Testing the various solutions.
5. Prioritizing and implementing the feasible ones.
In Continuous Improvement environment, all employees develop the skills to identify problems and are empowered to solve them with a team-based approach. Following are a number of simple problem solving tools that can be used by employees to analyze data, determine root cause and develop appropriate solutions.
Problem Solving Tools
Brainstorming
A method for generating creative ideas - very quickly - in a team.
Cause and Effect Diagram (Fish Bone)
A visible tool for gathering and organizing ideas on what root causes might lead to a particular observable effect.
The Why Technique
The objective of asking why multiple times to get past the symptoms to the root cause of the current condition.
Check Sheets (tally sheet)
A simple form for recording information to track down variations - a data gathering tool.
Pareto Diagrams
A method for prioritizing problems that quickly shows which factors contribute most to a problem, effect, or issue.
Process Flow Charts (Flow Diagrams)
A simple diagram that displays the actual steps in a process, showing sequence, decision points, etc. Great as a tool for communicating to others.
Value Stream Map
A visible tool that identifies all the steps in a process, value added and non value added. It provides additional data, such as yield, waiting time, touch time for problem solving.
PDCA
A systematic approach to solve problems. PDCA stands for Plan, Do, Check, Act/Adjust. Majority of time should be in Planning.
Rapid Cycle Problem Solving
Using the PDCA cycle, this problem solving process guides a team from problem identification, cause, solution to sustaining improvements
Front Line Leadership Module: Problem Solving
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