METHODS

SEVEN STEP PROBLEM SOLVING TECHNIQUE

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Seven Step Solving Problem

The History

The method was developed by The Quality Management Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, with its purpose being to find suitable solutions to problems identified.

The Principle

The method is based upon PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) and SDCA (Standard-Do-Check-Act). It looks for the casuses of problems, aimed at improvement. It is process-oriented. The original wording of the method consists of the following steps: Problem – Data – Cause – Solution – Results – Deployment – Debrief.

The Application Procedure

1. Defining the problem – describe the problem you have identified. Define the aim or commitment you need to achieve. Also, at this stage, it is appropriate to define the key parameters of the envisaged improvement.

2. Collecting and analyzing the data – gather all the relevant data and information available. Analyze it and verify you have really defined the problem you need to resolve correctly.

3. Analyzing the causes – determine all possible causes of the problem. You can utilize the Ishikawa diagram, brainstorming, experiment, analysis of historical data, information, trends, etc. Note down and file everything properly.

4. Developing and implementing the solutions – identify a convenient solution to find out the most likely cause. Plan the implementation of the solution thoroughly.

5. Evaluation of the effect – with the solution being applied in practice, verify whether you have reached the planned effect, and, in particular, whether you have eliminated the root cause.

6. Standardization of the solutions – if the solution has proven its worth, include it in your standard procedures. Measure/monitor the solution´s effect for a specified period of time.

7. Lessons learned – if you have really found a long-term solution to the problem, review the 7-step problem solving project and establish whether there are similar problems to be resolved. Train the personnel concerned to apply new knowledge and experience.

In using this method, it is also appropriate to check the costs of the solution. Appoint a responsible person to be in charge of the method´s implementation.

It is indeed a method for everyone, being especially suitable for resolving more complex problems, as it would be too complicated and costly for trivial ones.

This method can be classified as heuristic.

The method description by Jiří Střelec, a consultant

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rafiullah - quality control

how to solve promblems by seven step method
Posted 15. 03. 2012