The LEAD Practical Problem Solver (PPS)
Case Study
"We went through a tried and tested process using the practical problem solving technique (PPS) and this gave us an understanding of how to approach and solve problems through root cause analysis"
"We have gained an insight into problem solving and the problems faced when implementing any change however small. This has given us all an insight into problem solving using a structured method and the issues throughout the factory"
"By making good use of the tools and techniques, we now know that we should step back from the issue and ,using the correct tools, identify the true root cause of the problem. We believe we have actively found the correct solution"
Introduction
It is well documented that, in order to solve a problem permanently, teams have to address the true root cause. Rather than jumping to immediate conclusions, listening to unqualified opinions or picking the first idea that comes to mind, effective problem resolution has to be based upon facts and real data. It is only by following a structured approach which uses tools that encourage the collection of these facts, that the problem can be truly understood and hence the optimum solution found.
The tools for identifying and analysing the root cause of a problem have existing for many years. Many of these were developed during the era of Total Quality Management by experts such as Deming, Taguchi and Crosby and have given rise to new statistical methodologies such as Six Sigma. The main problem with any tool kit, is knowing when to use the appropriate tool, and to keep it simple. Some tools are very detailed and it is important to not over-complicate the process by using a tool for the sake of using it rather than solving the main problems. In addition, the tools need to be applied in sequence to ensure that enough rigour and discipline is followed and that every stage of a process is considered.
Once a team understands the current state of the process, they can then look to improve the activities with the aim of determining an improved future state. In order to summarise the stages involved in problem resolution, the use of A3 templates has become popular. This is simply a summary document, on a sheet of A3 paper that encourages teams to, not only follow a set sequence of actions to arrive at the best solution, but to summarise all of the key points in order to filter out the background research that may not necessary to report the project.
LEAD have developed a unique version of this template, known as the Practical Problem Solver (PPS) that, not only summarises the key facts of a project, but uses simple tools, in sequence to develop an improved process or solution. The Practical Problem Solver (PPS) has proven to be a great success and has been adopted by all of LEAD's clients and project teams as the preferred method of problem resolution.
Practical Problem Solver
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Example of a completed PPS - click to view
