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A structured cognitive process for analyzing issues and devising effective solutions to achieve goals.
DESCRIPTION
Problem Solving encompasses methods for understanding situations, generating hypotheses, evaluating options, and implementing solutions. Approaches include scientific method, root cause analysis, design thinking, and optimization. In data and AI contexts, it guides model selection, feature engineering, and experimental design. Effective problem solving balances creativity with rigor and uses quantitative evidence. It requires clear problem framing, stakeholder alignment, and iterative testing to validate outcomes. Documentation of reasoning and results supports learning and repeatability.
ALTERNATIVE DEFINITIONS
APA Dictionary of Psychology
problem solving n. the process of finding solutions to difficult or complex issues.
Concise psychological definition emphasizing process of finding solutions.
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Problem solving, the process involved in finding and implementing solutions to problems, often employing methods of reasoning and analysis.
Highlights both finding and implementing solutions with analysis.
MindTools
Problem solving is a systematic approach to defining a problem, understanding its root causes, and generating, selecting, and implementing solutions.
Emphasizes systematic steps and root cause analysis.
RELATED TERMS
Root Cause Analysis Critical Thinking Hypothesis Testing Optimization Design Thinking Troubleshooting Heuristic Analytical Thinking Brainstorming
COMPETING TERMS
Decision-Making
KNOWLEDGE AREAS
Data Science Software Engineering Testing & Validation Collaboration
TARGET AUDIENCE
Data Scientist Software Developer IT Project Manager Product Owner Scrum Master Business Analyst Solution Architect
EXTERNAL SOURCES
- Wikipedia - Problem solving
- Coursera - Course covering structured techniques
- edX - Critical thinking and problem solving
- IBM - Design thinking approach overview
TOP QUESTIONS
What is Problem Solving in a data context?
It’s a structured approach to defining questions, analyzing data, and choosing solutions through experimentation, modeling, and validation.
Category: Definition
How does Problem Solving differ from Decision Making?
Problem Solving generates and tests solutions; Decision Making selects among options based on criteria, risk, and constraints.
Category: Comparison
What frameworks support Problem Solving?
Scientific method, DMAIC, A3, design thinking, and root cause analysis provide repeatable paths to clarity and action.
Category: Overview
Why is problem framing crucial in Problem Solving?
Clear framing prevents solving the wrong problem, aligns stakeholders, and defines measurable success criteria.
Category: Requirements
How do hypotheses guide Problem Solving?
Hypotheses propose explanations or solutions, which are tested with data to confirm or refute assumptions.
Category: Concept
What common mistakes hinder Problem Solving?
Jumping to solutions, confirmation bias, ignoring constraints, and poor measurement lead to ineffective outcomes.
Category: Mistakes
How can teams improve Problem Solving effectiveness?
Use structured methods, diverse perspectives, rapid experiments, and retrospectives to learn and iterate.
Category: Best practices
What is the risk of skipping validation in Problem Solving?
Unvalidated solutions may fail in production, waste resources, and erode trust with stakeholders.
Category: Risks
How does data literacy support Problem Solving?
Data-savvy teams frame questions well, choose appropriate analyses, and interpret results accurately, improving decisions.
Category: Benefits