Problem solving process

Problem solving can be done in endless ways. Each problem will have a unique way in which it can be solved. The problem solving process that I have used is:

start>>

step 1>> Define the problem by stating the context and extent of the brief

               >>create mindmap/s related to the environment of brief
               >>generate list of possible problems
               >>understand what you are dealing with by answering the following:
                       >>what needs to be done?
                       >>who is it going to affect?
                       >>why is it needed?
                       >>where will it be used?
                       >>why will it be used?
               >>compile your findings and define your problem statement

checkpoint >>
do you have a clear idea of what the problem really is?
if no: >>step 1
if yes:

step 2>> Gather data by research and investigation

               >>decide what you need to know
               >>determine what factors influence the problem environment
               >>research
                       >>desk research
                       >>field research
                       >>dipstick research

checkpoint >>
have you identified other problems related to the area of research?
if yes: >>step 1
if no:

               >>look up articles from people who have done similar work

checkpoint >>
do you have enough knowledge about the problem environment? || do you understand the systems related to the problem?
if no: >>step 2
if yes:

step 3>> Generate ideas

               >>associate different aspects of the problem in order to find a fix
               >>draw out all the ideas that come into your mind even if they are not practical

checkpoint >>
are you stuck with one/no idea?
if yes: revisit step 1 and step 2
if no:

               >>combine different ideas to form integrated solutions

checkpoint >>
have you come up with a good number of ideas?
if no: >>step 3
if yes:

step 4>> Select a solution using the criteria for success

               >>revisit the problem statement and data gathered in step 2
               >>take into consideration one solution at a time and pass it through these filters:
                    >>aesthetics, feasibility & performance
                    >>cost & competition in the market
                    >>ease of manufacturing
                    >>safety, storage & transport
                    >>disposal & environmental factors
                    >>community issues & social impact
                    >>repair & maintenance
               >>select the solution which best fits and meets the brief/problem statement

checkpoint >>
is there any scope for improvement in the solution?
if yes: >>step 3
if no:

step 5>> Describe the action plan

               >>draw out the solution with measurements and other specifications
               >>use data gathered in step 2 
               >>specify all the processes and mechanisms involved
               >>gather answers to the following questions:
                    >>what materials are required?
                    >>how much material will be required to produce?
                    >>how long will it take to produce?
                    >>what will be the cost of production?

checkpoint >>
are there any changes required?
if yes: >>step 3 || step 4
if no:

               >>make a prototype

checkpoint >>
does the solution work?
if no: go back to last checkpoint
if yes:

step 6>> Testing and debugging

               >>see if the prototype withstands various conditions of the environment by running tests

checkpoint >>
have you identified problems that have raised due to the solution?
if yes: >> step 3
if no:

               >>improve the design according to the brief >>revisit step 1
               >>step 6

checkpoint >>
does the prototype fulfil all the requirements of the brief?
if no: >>step 4
if yes: problem solved.

>>end

>>http://www.rapidintellect.com/AEQweb/cho3557z6.htm<<