Why Problem Solving Needs to Be Taught, Not Just Expected

Most organizations assume their people know how to solve problems. Most people assume the same thing about themselves. But research consistently shows that the way individuals naturally approach problems – their default style – often works against them in certain situations, and that the awareness to recognise this and adapt is rarely developed without deliberate training.

HRDQ's problem solving programs start with self-assessment for exactly this reason. Before participants work on techniques, they examine their own default style – how they naturally gather information, how they involve others, and where their instincts are most likely to lead them astray.

The Main Problem Solving Training Objectives

• Enhance Critical Thinking: Have you ever felt stuck in a mental traffic jam when faced with a barrier? Problem solving training provides the tools to streamline critical thinking. You'll learn to dissect predicaments, identify core complications, and formulate effective resolutions.
• Foster Creativity: Problem solving is an art, not just a science. This training encourages you to unleash your creative side.
• Boost Decision Making Skills: In the real world, choices are the currency of progress. Problem solving training hones your decision making skills, helping you navigate the labyrinth of choices with confidence.
• Promote Team Collaboration: Problem solving rarely happens in a vacuum. Whether at work or in personal endeavors, collaboration is key. This training equips you with the interpersonal skills needed to navigate group dynamics, turning a diverse set of minds into a powerhouse of brainstorming.

The Five Problem Solving Styles

There are five problem solving approaches that people typically employ:

1. Ego-Oriented: With this style, the supervisor performs all troubleshooting tasks or makes conclusions by themselves with no input from others. They determine what the situation is, gather background information, generate possible outcomes, choose the final solution, implement the solution, and conduct an evaluation to determine whether the solution actually solved the barrier.
2. Deferred: With this style, the supervisor defers from addressing the predicament or making the decision. They are aware that a problem exists or a decision must be made, but they choose not to deal with it at the moment. Deferred problem solving might take the form of looking for a more perfect solution, waiting to see if the complication will resolve itself, or waiting for the right moment to make a decision.
3. Other-Oriented: With this style, the administrator has others perform all the problem solving tasks. The manager recognizes that an issue exists or a decision must be made but delegates the responsibility for correcting the situation to others.
4. I/We-Oriented: With this style, the supervisor includes others in the initial steps of the problem solving process. They will seek the help of others in identifying the problem, gathering background information, and weighing possible alternative solutions.
5. We-Oriented: With this style, the administrator shares the problem solving process with others. The manager’s input carries no more weight than the input offered by other people involved in the process.

Problem solving training programs will help improve your decision making processes and help you solve difficulties in your company in a more professional manner.

Benefits of Problem Solving Training

1. Enhanced Team Collaboration

Problem solving becomes a shared language, enabling teams to analyze challenges effectively and work together smoothly toward solutions.

2. Fosters Innovation and Continuous Improvement

A workforce skilled in overcoming obstacles drives a culture of creativity where challenges inspire new ideas and progress.

3. Increased Productivity and Efficiency

Training helps teams identify bottlenecks and streamline processes, turning complex tasks into efficient routines.

4. Boosts Individual Confidence

Participants gain assurance in their ability to tackle personal and professional challenges with a clear, solution-focused mindset.

5. Builds Adaptability

Strong problem solving skills equip individuals to navigate uncertainty and change with agility and resilience.

6. Enhances Stress Management

Learning problem solving strategies helps transform stress into productive energy for better decision making.

7. Accelerates Career Growth

Skilled problem solvers are valuable assets who often move quickly into leadership roles due to their ability to handle challenges effectively.

Get Started with HRDQ

Explore HRDQ's research-based problem solving training solutions. Backed by over 45 years of experience, each product is designed to help learners practice and develop the skills that make a real difference.

Is problem solving a natural talent, or could it be developed?

Problem solving skills can be developed and strengthened over time. While some individuals may showcase an innate knack, anyone can hone their abilities through training and practice.

What can you learn from a problem solving training program?

Problem solving training programs help you analyze how your perspective and biases affect your ability to navigate difficulties, understand the impact of organizational choices on individual growth and success, and recognize the career implications of solutions.

Why does your group need problem solving training?

Our programs are beneficial for all levels of leaders who want to promote improved problem solving skills within their companies.

Problem solving training helps generate innovative solutions and strategies, leading to a competitive advantage and organizational success.

It is particularly helpful for supervisors, task force leaders, engineers, functional experts, controllers, consultants, and anyone dealing with numerous complications.

Can problem solving abilities be measured or quantified?

Yes, the effectiveness of problem solving can be gauged through improved decision making, efficiency, and the ability to tackle challenges effectively. It's a journey marked by tangible improvements.

Is this a one-size-fits-all development, or can it be customized?

Problem solving is versatile. While there are foundational principles, they can be tailored to suit diverse needs, ensuring relevance and applicability in various contexts.

Ready to elevate your problem solving game? Dive into the transformative world of HRDQ's problem solving skills certification online!

Uncover the art of problem solving through engaging assessments, interactive activities, and thought-provoking games. Don't miss this opportunity to hone your competencies – take the leap with HRDQ and become a problem solving expert today!