Fourteen Techniques for Solving Complex Problems

Problem-solving is particularly important for companies because it directly improves efficiency and productivity. According to a study by McKinsey & Company, companies with strong problem-solving skills are up to 30% more productive and innovative. A well-thought-out approach to problem-solving promotes employee satisfaction and engagement because it actively involves them in developing solutions. Studies show that employees in companies with a strong problem-solving culture are happier and more productive. In addition, the ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently strengthens customer loyalty, as customers expect their concerns to be handled swiftly and competently.

Overall, problem solving is not just a tool for overcoming challenges, but a central component of corporate strategy that ensures long-term success and competitiveness. Here are 13 proven problem-solving methods that can help you overcome challenges systematically and effectively.

If you find a method exciting and want to learn more, we have written a detailed blog about each method.

Visualisation is a standalone problem-solving method and an essential first step before any action. Graphical representations such as flowcharts or Gantt charts help teams to quickly grasp complex problems and work together more efficiently.

This method reveals weaknesses and bottlenecks that often remain hidden in text-based documentation. After analysing the visual representations, all participants can contribute their observations and suggestions for solutions, which promotes a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration. The power of visualisation lies in its ability to make complex information understandable and accessible. This increases efficiency, improves communication and understanding within the team, and leads to more effective problem solving.

2. Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a proven method for promoting creativity and teamwork in companies. In this group activity, participants are encouraged to express their thoughts freely and spontaneously on a specific topic or problem. The process begins with the clear definition of the problem or question by a moderator, who also ensures that every idea is accepted without premature evaluation.

Each participant contributes ideas, which are carefully documented. After the collection, the ideas are analysed and evaluated, often with the aim of finding innovative solutions. The strength of brainstorming lies in its openness to all ideas, regardless of their apparent feasibility. This creates an environment in which unexpected and creative approaches can emerge that might otherwise have been overlooked.

3. Mind mapping

Mind mapping is a visual technique for structuring and presenting thoughts and ideas. A central concept is placed in the middle and branches are added with subtopics and related ideas. This method helps the brain to organise information naturally and develop a comprehensive understanding of a topic. The visual representation makes connections and hierarchies clear, which leads to improved problem solving. Mind mapping also promotes teamwork by presenting complex information in a clear way and supporting creative processes. It is suitable for both individual and group work and contributes to better communication and understanding within a team.

4. Modelling

Modelling is a technique for representing and analysing processes through abstract models. The process begins with the identification of relevant elements and their relationships, which are then mapped in a visual or mathematical model. This method simplifies complex systems and makes them understandable. Modelling helps to identify weaknesses and optimisation potential and makes it possible to simulate different scenarios to find the best solutions.

Modelling aids effective communication within a team by providing a clear, visual representation of the process. This enables teams to collaborate more efficiently and make informed decisions to solve problems.

5. 5-Whys

The Five Whys method is a technique for identifying the root cause of a problem by asking ‘why?’ five times. You start with the obvious problem and dig deeper to uncover the underlying causes. This approach helps to understand the roots of the problem, not just treat superficial symptoms. The method starts with a clear identification of the problem. Then you ask the first ‘why?’ question and repeat this process five times or until the root cause is found.

The value of the Five Whys method lies in gaining deeper insights and developing more sustainable solutions. It is easy to apply and often leads to surprising insights that contribute to continuous improvement.

6. 6-3-5 method

The 6-3-5 method is a structured brainwriting technique. Six participants each write down three ideas within five minutes and pass them on. The cycle repeats until each participant has seen all the sheets. The method begins with a clear definition of the problem. Each participant writes down their three ideas and passes on the sheet to add new ideas. This technique harnesses the creativity of the participants and promotes the written exchange of ideas.

The 6-3-5 method generates a multitude of new approaches and solutions, promotes team collaboration and enables the rapid generation of many ideas. It unfolds creative potential and develops solutions to complex problems.

7. Simulation

Simulation is a method of replicating real-world processes in a virtual environment. This technique is used to analyse and test processes and solve problems without using physical resources. By creating a detailed model, various scenarios and their effects on the process can be examined. Simulations are particularly useful for solving problems because they allow potential difficulties and bottlenecks to be identified and resolved at an early stage. They provide a risk-free environment to test changes and improvements before implementing them in the real world. By analysing simulation results, teams can make informed decisions and develop effective problem-solving strategies.

The power of simulation lies in its ability to realistically represent complex systems and operations, taking into account different variables and their interactions. This leads to the precise identification of problem areas and supports continuous improvement of problem solving.

8. Fishbone diagram

The fishbone diagram, also known as the Ishikawa diagram or cause-and-effect diagram, is a visual tool that helps identify and analyse the root causes of a problem. It looks like the skeleton of a fish, where the problem is the head and the potential causes are the fish bones. You start with the problem at the head of the diagram and then add possible causes in categories such as people, machines, methods, materials, measurements and environment.

This method is particularly useful because it enables a systematic analysis of the causes and helps to understand the actual problems, rather than just treating superficial symptoms. The fishbone diagram promotes a deep understanding of interrelationships and supports the development of effective and sustainable solutions.

9. SWOT analysis

A SWOT analysis assesses the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of a situation or organisation. The process begins with the identification of internal and external factors, which are then presented in a four-part matrix. This method enables a thorough analysis of internal capacities and external influences. By evaluating strengths and weaknesses, organisations can better assess their resources, while opportunities and threats highlight potential developments in the environment.

SWOT analysis supports strategic decision-making and planning, providing a clear overview of the current situation and future developments. Its strength lies in its comprehensibility and its ability to serve as a solid basis for strategic decisions.

10. Scamper

Scamper is a proven creativity technique that aims to improve existing products or services by thinking through seven approaches (Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, Reverse). This method encourages you to systematically consider each of these approaches and to think about how the product or service can be optimised by making changes in these areas. The process begins with clearly structuring your thinking, which leads to the effective development of new and innovative solutions. By applying the seven approaches in a targeted manner, different perspectives are taken into account, which often leads to surprising and creative solutions.

The advantage of Scamper is that it is easy to learn and use. It is an efficient method for making targeted improvements to existing products or services while promoting the creative potential of teams. With this technique, companies can strategically develop their products and tap into new market opportunities.

11. Flowcharts

Flowcharts are visual representations of processes that show the sequence of steps and connections between steps to efficiently identify and solve problems. The process begins with a starting point and is represented by symbols and connections. This method is particularly useful because it clearly displays complex processes and quickly identifies problematic steps. Flowcharts promote better communication and understanding within a team because they clearly visualise the process flow. Flowcharts aid in problem analysis and resolution by highlighting logical sequences and decision points. This helps teams identify problem areas and develop effective solutions. By clearly mapping out the process, teams can take targeted action and develop solutions based on informed analysis.

12. Osborn Checklist

The Osborn checklist is a structured series of questions for creative problem solving. The process involves systematically going through and answering questions in order to consider a problem from different angles and to find creative solutions. This method promotes structured thinking and helps to develop innovative solutions by taking into account different perspectives. The Osborn checklist is easy to learn and use, helping teams to develop creative potential and generate innovative ideas. It contributes to the development of effective solutions that meet market requirements. A significant advantage of the Osborn checklist is its ease of use. Through the structured approach, it not only promotes creativity, but also contributes to the development of effective solutions. The essential part of the Osborn checklist is the actual checklist, which we will discuss in more detail in the following blog.

13. Walt Disney Strategy

The Walt Disney Strategy is a problem-solving method that looks at a problem from three perspectives: dreamer, realist, and critic. First, all possible ideas are developed in the dreamer perspective. Then, the realist perspective is used to examine the practical implementation of these ideas. Finally, the critic perspective is used to identify potential weaknesses and risks. This method enables a comprehensive view of a problem, promotes creativity through the free development of ideas and critical thinking through pragmatic review. It helps teams develop realistic and actionable solutions by incorporating different perspectives and is therefore a valuable method for developing innovative and practical solutions to complex challenges.

14. Prototyping

Prototyping is a method of developing and improving products or services by creating simple models or prototypes. These prototypes are used to test and refine ideas quickly and cost-effectively. The process begins with the creation of an initial draft, which is then tested and improved based on feedback. This cycle of creating, testing and adjusting is repeated until a satisfactory result is achieved. Prototyping is highly effective because it enables early feedback and reveals potential problems in the development process. It promotes an iterative approach that supports flexibility and adaptability. By quickly testing and refining ideas, teams can develop innovative solutions and minimise the risk of failed developments. This method is particularly useful for improving a product's functionality and usability before investing larger resources in its final development.

From 20-22 November 2024, a workshop organised by us will take place on the topic of successfully solving complex problems. Join us and expand your knowledge.

Companies that apply effective problem-solving methods increase their efficiency, productivity and employee satisfaction, and ensure their long-term competitiveness. From visualisation and brainstorming to 5 Whys and SWOT analyses, and from the Walt Disney strategy to prototyping, the 14 methods described offer different approaches to systematic and creative problem solving. Each technique helps to look at problems from different perspectives, to promote creative ideas and to develop sustainable solutions.

We provide a detailed blog post for each of these methods, offering more in-depth information and instructions on how to use them so that you can discover and use the problem-solving strategies that are right for your business.