As a new manager, you're going to find yourself having to solve more problems than before. So, for this talk, we're going to take a look at a very simple, structured problem solving methodology. And when we done that, I'll introduce you to my four top tips for problem solving. So to start with, let's have a look at that structured methodology. The first step in any problem solving technique must be to understand the context. Because without the context, you can't fully understand the problem.

And you can't safely select the best solution. The next step is to identify what the problem is. And the best way to characterize the problem is to describe it in a form how to That way, you're casting the problem in terms of the solution. Once you've understood the context and the problem, the next thing to do is to set an objective. What are the criteria against which you're going to measure the quality of possible solutions? Now it's time to investigate.

Look at the facts, find out what the issues are. This is also where you can start to look at cause and effect and find the causes that need to be fixed in order to create a solution. When you've done that, you can start to build up a number of options for solutions. The more options you get, the better but at some point, you're going to have to evaluate those options. Your evaluation needs to be against the criteria you set when you thought about your objective, and you need to keep them as rational and as objective as you can. Once you've done your evaluation, that will give you the basis on which to make a decision.

Once you've made a decision, problem solving isn't over. You still need to communicate that decision and make a plan. How are you going to implement the solutions that you have selected? Once you have a plan, of course, the next step is to take action. And don't forget to constantly review and evaluate the things that you're doing and the results that you're achieving. Do this during implementation to avoid costly mistakes partway through and certainly do it at the end.

A simple 10 step process for solving problems. So now you know how to go about solving a problem. What are my top tips for a manager solving problems? Well, the first is to define your problem in terms of a successful outcome solution. Always start by defining your problem as how to that sets you up with the right mindset. My second tip is when you've got a problem, look for the root causes.

And the way we do that, is by asking the question, why we ask the question why we go to cause and when we ask the question, why, again, we go to a deeper cause. And if we keep asking the question, why time and time again, we'll eventually end up with an answer. That has no why that is the root cause. This is often known as the five why's technique for very simple reason. And that is that often five is about the right number of wise to ask, but do not take five wise as an absolute prescription. My third tip is to generate multiple options.

And whilst it's true that more options gives you more choice, more choice gives you more likely heard of getting the right answer. It's vital to recognize that if we have too many options, we find it very hard to make a decision. So when you've got lots of options, narrow them down, exclude all the wild and weigh out options and the ones that really don't have a chance of being the best and narrow it down to about three or four most five strong contenders for the right thing to do. And my final tip is when you've got your Options make a rational decision. Now, I'm not saying that there is no place for emotion in business and organizational life. And I'm also not saying that your gut instincts and your intuition won't give you a valuable lead in some circumstances, but both of them can mislead you.

So whether your initial decision is driven by an emotion or intuitive response, always look for the rational justification for that, partly to make sure that you've got some solid evidence to back up your decision. And secondly, because you're going to have to communicate that decision to convince others within your organization. And without that strong reason, you're not going to be able to do it. So for very simple tips, and a strong straightforward methodology, to help you solve the problems that you will encounter, as a new manager, good luck.