Problem Solving Techniques Workshop

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Questions and Answers

What is a key benefit of leaders understanding opportunities that require solutioning?

It promotes efficiency and organizational thriving. (correct)

It decreases the need for collaboration.

It limits creativity in problem-solving.

It prioritizes team comfort over efficiency.

Which aspect of problem-solving most directly benefits from group collaboration?

A structured approach to problem elimination.

Diverse perspectives and creativity. (correct)

Individual decision-making skills.

The overall efficiency of the process.

In the framework of problem solving, what is the first step?

Understand Current State.

Implement Standard Work.

Define Root Cause.

Define the Problem. (correct)

What tool can be used to gather data and map the current state in the problem-solving process?

Feedback. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is suggested for defining the root cause of a problem?

5-why Analysis. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended approach to mitigate the issue of midges being attracted to lights at the memorial?

Adjust the timing of the lights to turn them on later Signup and view all the answers

What tool is suggested to prioritize the current state when addressing problems?

Pareto chart Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in addressing a lingering problem within an organization according to the process outlined?

Define the lingering problem Signup and view all the answers

During a workshop to solve a lingering problem, what is a task that teams are expected to complete?

Identify 3 lingering problems affecting the team Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor in creating a detailed prioritized problem statement?

Using the 5-why analysis tool Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key competencies listed for the roles held at HON?

Lean Leadership Signup and view all the answers

Which role is NOT associated with Heil?

VP, Manufacturing Signup and view all the answers

What degree did the individual obtain from Berry College?

MBA Signup and view all the answers

Which key competency is NOT explicitly mentioned?

Team Management Signup and view all the answers

Who is one of the Lean Development Managers mentioned?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Which company had the Factory Manager position listed?

HON Signup and view all the answers

What field did the individual study at Georgia Tech?

Engineering Signup and view all the answers

Which title denotes a higher position than Plant Manager?

VP & General Manager Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key competencies associated with Ken LaVerdi's professional background?

Process Improvement Signup and view all the answers

Which educational qualification does Ken LaVerdi hold that is directly related to process improvement?

LSS Black Belt Signup and view all the answers

What are the desired outcomes of the learning objectives outlined in the content?

Develop the mindset for problem-solving. Signup and view all the answers

In which position does Ken LaVerdi currently serve?

Lean Development Manager Signup and view all the answers

What is one topic discussed in the learning objectives regarding HNI’s framework?

Problem Solving Frameworks Signup and view all the answers

What is a function of a management consultant like Ken LaVerdi?

Provide leadership development. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the roles discussed for leaders in problem-solving within the learning objectives?

To assess problems and begin solutioning. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of an effective problem statement?

It describes one specific problem clearly. Signup and view all the answers

Which timeframe is appropriate to include in a problem statement?

The specific timeframe the problem was observed. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of data should be included in a detailed problem statement?

Quantifiable data relevant to the issue. Signup and view all the answers

What is not recommended when crafting a problem statement?

Including assumptions about the root causes. Signup and view all the answers

In an effective problem statement, what should the impact of the problem convey?

A specific effect on business operations. Signup and view all the answers

Which is an example of a clear and concise problem description?

In Q4, network latency increased significantly during peak hours. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a component of a detailed problem statement?

Assumptions about remedies. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum score a designer can achieve in the scoring system presented?

16 points Signup and view all the answers

Which item is NOT listed as a requirement for the back of the drawing?

Lincoln's portrait facing right Signup and view all the answers

What pressure did observers face during the scoring process?

To articulate their observations clearly Signup and view all the answers

Which element is considered a bonus feature on the back design?

12 columns Signup and view all the answers

How does the content suggest the team's goals are structured?

Team-based focusing on shared risks and rewards Signup and view all the answers

What is a common pitfall associated with a generalized statement about a problem?

Insufficient specificity Signup and view all the answers

Which pitfall is identified when problem statements use assumptions without supporting data?

Lack of data/evidence Signup and view all the answers

What does a solutions-oriented approach in a problem statement typically include?

A call-to-action for resolving the issue Signup and view all the answers

How are statements that do not analyze the root cause of an issue classified?

Root cause presumption Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best represents a problem characterized by multiple unrelated issues?

Customers report issues both with product quality and warranty claims. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of a well-constructed problem statement?

To identify the main problem without distractions Signup and view all the answers

In the context of problem statements, what is a critical component of evidence-based claims?

Quantifiable data Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects the pitfall of solutioning in problem description?

We need to hire more staff to improve service response times. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a problem statement that is too vague?

It lacks substantial detail regarding the issue. Signup and view all the answers

What is a likely outcome when leaders prioritize problem-solving opportunities effectively?

The organization thrives Signup and view all the answers

What does defining a detailed problem statement involve?

Prioritizing and writing a thorough description of the problem Signup and view all the answers

What is one critical benefit of increased collaboration in problem-solving?

It enhances creative approaches to problems Signup and view all the answers

What does the tool '5-why' primarily assist with in problem-solving?

Determining the root cause of a problem Signup and view all the answers

Which step follows the 'Define the Problem' stage in the problem-solving framework?

Understand Current State Signup and view all the answers

What can be a challenge when trying to eliminate the root cause of a problem?

Lack of data to support findings Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of gathering data in the framework of problem solving?

To map the detailed current state of the process or event Signup and view all the answers

In a problem-solving context, creativity allows teams to:

Approach problems from new angles Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected outcome of solving lingering problems within an organization?

Sustained success and efficiency Signup and view all the answers

What role does effective decision-making play in problem-solving for leaders?

It delivers better paths forward for solutions Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate root cause identified in Mr. Memets' garden issue?

Mr. Memets' mother throwing cheese in the garden. Signup and view all the answers

What corrective action did Mr. Memets take to resolve the garden problem?

He changed the type of cheese provided to his mother. Signup and view all the answers

How many times does the 'why' question need to be asked in the 5-Why method?

Five Signup and view all the answers

What problem did Mr. Memets face in his garden?

Cats were damaging the garden. Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial problem statement regarding Mr. Memets' garden activities?

Mr. Memets’ garden is being damaged. Signup and view all the answers

What leads to the infestation of rats in Mr. Memets' garden?

Daily disposal of cheese. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Mr. Memets' mother throw cheese into the garden?

She didn't like the smell. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the 5-Why technique?

To identify the root cause of a problem. Signup and view all the answers

What was the effect of eliminating the cheese from Mr. Memets' garden?

The rat infestation was eliminated. Signup and view all the answers

What key learning can be derived from the 5-Why analysis demonstrated in the garden problem?

Root causes can often be traced to overlooked actions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Applied Problem Solving

Applied Problem Solving is a topic covered by the Business Process Improvement Team.
The presentation uses a glass of water as an example to prompt visual thinking/problem-solving.
The BPI team is focused on improvement throughout the organization.

Business Process Improvement (BPI) Team

The BPI team trains and educates members on lean principles and methodologies.
The BPI team supports the identification of opportunities, drives problem-solving efforts, and implements effective improvements.
Key team members and their roles are detailed
The BPI team plays a crucial role in promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

Problem Solving: Intentional Development

Critical thinking skills are essential for effective problem-solving.
Using data effectively is crucial for prioritizing and focusing continuous improvement efforts.
Leaders play a vital role in improving decision making by analyzing information and evaluating options.
Collaboration and creativity are critical aspects of effective problem solving.

Framework of Problem Solving

The presentation outlines a framework for problem-solving.
Steps include: Define the Problem, Understand Current State, Define Detailed Problem Statement, Define Root Cause, Eliminate Root Cause, and Implement Standard Work.
The activities involve Define a problem, Understand the Current state, Define Detailed Problem Statement, Define Root Cause.

Active Perspective

A 5-why analysis example is provided.
A possible solution for an identified problem is presented.
Impact of team members during an activity is mentioned.

Scoring

There are guidelines for scoring the designer's and the team's drawings.
Scoring criteria include correct location and position.
A maximum of 16 possible points are awarded per drawing.

Answers - Front/Back

Correct answers for the front and back view of a coin are provided.

Debrief

The presentation contains questions to help participants understand their roles, improve performance, and apply lessons learned about the real-world applications.
The questions include how the participants felt during the activity, pressure they experienced, and the results and contribution to improvements.

Understand Current State: Why?

Key factors for understanding the current state of a process are presented.
There is a need to align the team on a common understanding of reality, pay attention to details, and utilize resources effectively for informed decision making.

Understand Current State: Process Map

The techniques used to visually map out workflows and processes are presented.
This section highlights the method of making visual process maps via the technique of gathering data, and mapping the detailed current state process/event that is occurring.

Understand Current State: 5W2H

A structured method, 5W2H, for understanding current state is detailed.
Key questions ("What, Why, Where, Who, When, How, How Often") are included to guide the investigation process.

Information-gathering Technique (5W2H)

The 5W2H method is presented in a table format for reference.

Detailed Problem Statement – Why?

The importance of a detailed problem statement is explained.
Focusing the team on the specific issue is essential for root cause analysis.

Detailed Problem Statement Criteria

Clarity, Time-Bound, Quantifiable, and Assumptions are included as criteria for effective problem statements.

Problem Statement Examples

Ineffective versus effective problem statements are shown.

Problem Statement Common Pitfalls

Potential issues in defining a problem statement are examined (vagueness, lacks data/evidence, solutions-oriented, root cause presumption, multiple problems).

Active Perspective: The Problem Statement

Examples of good and bad problem statements are showcased.

Detailed Problem Statement Criteria

The presentation highlights vital criteria including clarity, time-bound nature, quantifiability, and absence of assumptions.

Functional Application

Various individuals' roles, work experience, skills, and involvement with HNI are showcased.

Learning Objectives & Desired Outcomes

The desired learning objectives focus on familiarization with the HNI problem-solving framework, understanding one’s role as a leader in the process, and learning tools and techniques.
Desired outcomes involve developing the mindset for problem-solving, evaluating problems, and applying appropriate steps to begin the solution process effectively.

Framework of Problem Solving (Slide 55)

The process of solving problems by defining the issue, identifying contributing causes, developing proposed solutions, implementing solutions, and verifying their success is described.

Problem-Solving Framework (Slide 63)

The process of solving problems by defining the issue, identifying contributing causes, developing proposed solutions, implementing solutions, and verifying their success is described (different version).

Audit the Process First

Outlining the importance of auditing processes before addressing individual members in problem-solving.

5 Why

The 5 Whys method for root cause analysis is presented.

Learn on Your Own #3 – 5 Whys

Practice with examples of applying the 5 Whys method for analysis.

Example – 5 Why

Examples of different cases using the 5 Why method to solve specific problems are summarized.

Pareto Charts (80/20)

The 80/20 principle, suggesting that roughly 80% of effects often result from 20% of causes, is highlighted in the Pareto chart application.
Pareto Charts are used to prioritize actions effectively.

Practice – Pareto

Practical application in using Pareto charts for analysis is provided.

Learning Objectives

Objectives to familiarize participants with HNI's problem-solving framework, their role as leaders in problem solving, and different problem-solving tools

Combining with Slide 10

How to link or merge the data or content of two separate slides

Fishbone/Cause-Effect/Ishikawa Diagram

Describing a method used to analyze potential causes of a problem, which is categorized using a fishbone diagram.

Practice - Fishbone

Practical exercises using the fishbone diagram.

Problem Statement Outcomes

Good problem statements are compared with bad problem statements in this presentation.