Possible ways of solving problems in Crisis Period
Some people say history is repeating itself but whether this
is true or not, the most important thing is that the method used in solving the
problem a hundred years ago will no longer be relevant in recent times.
Definitely, this method will be extremely obsolete if considered for use now.
The reality is that there is no fixed context.
In solving problems, it is recommended to develop the
capacity for reflective actions. In handling reflective actions, the following
are considered;
a.
Take the necessary action
b.
Integrate the learning of the action
c. Understand
the difference between the actions taking and learn from the experience
Let’s
use the Cynefin framework to understand how to deal with a typical situation or
problem. It is certain that not all situations are equal, so this framework can
be useful in defining which response is required for a given situation or
problem. Having a good solution to a problem is great, but applying it in the
wrong situation or context can lead to outcomes that are more complicated.
Making use of the framework can
help one understand the method to use in finding the most appropriate solution
that matches the conditions of the
problem.
There are four categories in the Cynefin Framework; Obvious,
Complicated, Complex and Chaotic.
1. Obvious
Obvious (formerly known as
Simple) is the category of Best
Practices. With this category there is a direct relationship between the cause
and the effect of the problem that can be seen by everyone. The right (single) answer
is usually obvious and cannot be disputed. In this category, the problem
statement is understood and the solution is evident. Simple problem solving
methods can be applied here. Established best practices can be implemented with
well-known reviewed solutions. Minimal expertise is required to resolve
problems in this category.
2. Complicated
Complicated is the category where good practices can be
found. Here there are multiple right answers, and expert diagnosis is required
to figure them out. This sector demands more quantitative approaches such as
the use of Six Sigma. The problem is more predictable than unpredictable. The
Cause and Effect relationship is not discovered immediately but takes time. In
this category, it is necessary to assess the situation, sense the problem, investigate
several options, analyse large data groups, make use of expert’s knowledge for
insight and metrics to gain control, base response on good practice, determine
a course of action and then execute the plan. The Plan, Do, Check, Act (PDCA) cycle
can be used for the execution.
3. Complex
The complex category is where solutions
are discovered by developing a safe environment for experimentation. This
experimentation process which is the starting point enables the discovery of relevant
information that is required for the creation of new possible solutions. These
problems are always more unpredictable than predictable. The problem has to be explored
to determine the right answer. Decisions
taken can only be based on detailed experiments, inspections and results. The
current results can then be used to define the next step toward a solution. In
such situations our ability to probe (explore), sense (inspect) and respond
(adapt) is important. Complex problems require more creativity and innovative
thinking skills. The process of experimenting can be repeated several times in
other to get the most desirable goal. This requires executing, evaluating and
following the Plan, Do, Check, Act cycle.
4. Chaotic
Chaotic problems require rapid
responses. When in a crisis there is immediate action required to prevent
further harm and to return the situation to normalcy. In this category, actions
needs to be taken immediately and decisions are made quickly so as to correct
the prevailing symptoms. This category cannot accommodate the process of starting
investigations, data gathering and work analysis relating to correcting the
cause of the problem due to time. The immediate action in this category is to
quickly address the problem creating the issue and then find possible ways to
contain the effects and restore order. This quick (mostly novel) solution(s)
does not usually correct the underlying cause, but containment is more
paramount here. In taking actions towards correcting the cause of the problem, it
might be necessary to move this to another category of solving problems.