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Self-Paced Study, Certificate Course
Problem Solving Track

Introduction to Practical Problem Solving

  • Problem Solving is at the core of all CI tools
  • Every person in the organization needs to be a problem solver
  • Whatever your company's CI path, problem solving is valuable
  • Improved problem solving pays instant dividends

Level: 101

Core training that can be put to use by frontline team members

Phase: 3

Starting the Journey
Problem solving is a vital collective skill for early in the CI journey.

Self-Paced Learning

Train at your own pace, when it fits your schedule.

Access: 30 Days

30 Days access when bought individually, or indefinite as a member.

Free Sections: 2

Look for this 'free' icon in the curriculum below, and access all the lessons in those sections.

Certificate Type:
Achievement

This course earns you a certificate of achievement after passing exam.

Learning Track:
Practical Problem Solving

This course is part of our Practical Problem Solving learning track.

Completion Time: 90 min

This course has roughly an hour of video, a handful of eBook lessons, and an exam. You can spend additional time on the reference materials.
About this COURSE

Introduction to Practical Problem Solving

Description
Course Details
Where this Training Fits in CIDS

Description

Problem solving is a mixture of art and science. The better your science—structure, processes, and tools—the more you can unleash your creativity—the art.

To get the best results, you need a strong understanding of what problems are, what problem-solving is, problem-solving methods, and the variety of tools available to you. And that all needs to be done within the frame of strong project and team management.

About this Course

Key Points

  • Problem solving is at the heart of every non-production process

  • Most CI tools are pre-packaged solutions to common problems. Knowing problem-solving helps people understand how to adjust tool use
  • Common language in problem solving makes people more effective
  • Problem solving is a process
  • You can improve your problem-solving abilities

Learning Objectives

  • Agree on the definition of problem and problem solving

  • Understand why it is important to have a process for solving problems

  • Learn about the benefits and costs of using a problem-solving method.

  • Get an overview of the types of problem solving tools that are available.

  • Get an understanding of the different problem solving methodologies that are in common use.

  • Understand the difference between step by step process and a process framework. The latter is used when the process has a creative focus to it.

Transformation

After completing this Introduction to Practical Problem Solving course, you'll shift from approaching workplace issues reactively to thinking like a structured problem solver. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of how to break down problems, identify root causes, and select practical solutions using proven tools and methods. Even in the limited time it takes to complete this course, you’ll gain the confidence to tackle challenges more systematically and contribute more effectively to improvement efforts in your team or department.

About Problem Solving and CIDS

CIDS, or the Continuous Improvement Development System, is a structured approach to building a robust business management system that is powered by a strong continuous improvement culture.

Problem solving is a core part of nearly everything you do in continuous improvement, so it should come as no surprise that it is a part of the earliest phase that affects the entire company--Phase 3: Starting the Journey. Earlier phases are geared towards getting leaders on board.

With a solid understanding of problem solving, leaders and frontline employees alike will gain a better understanding of how tools work and why they are effective, which, in turn, lets them understand how to adjust those tools to meet non-standard needs.

Great problem solvers are central to continuous improvement. Having a team of great problem solvers in your company is like adding a turbocharger, high octane fuel, and a rocket engine to your car.

Course contents