Problem Solving Overview Objective of Problem Solving OODA Loop Problem Solving Process Types of problems 8 Steps Objective of Problem Solving Objective Help airmen focus on problem solving skills that affect Mission Workcenters People Approach aimed at Increasing combat capability Making AF more effective efficient Objective of Problem Solving Remove Waste and Inefficiencies Increase Productivity Asset Availability Improve Response Time and Agility Energy Efficiency Sustain Safe and Reliable Operations OODA Loop Originated by Col John Boyd USAF A K A Decision Cycle Forty Second Boyd Begin from disadvantaged position Defeat any pilot 40 sec OODA Loop Four Overlapping Interacting Processes Observe Current Situation Form Theories Orient Set Improvement Targets Determine Root Causes Decide Develop Solutions Act Implement Evaluate Problem Solving Process Problem Solving Process Types of problems Something is broken how do we fix it Is there opportunity to make something better Why did something happen Find the answer New initiative to implement Problem Solving Process Step 1 Clarify Validate the Problem Recognize the Correct Problem Go to source Observe first hand State the Problem ensures everyone working effectively towards same goals Tools Go See Value Stream Mapping flow chart Voice of Customer Problem Solving Process Step 2 Breakdown Problem ID Gaps Gather Review Key Data Six Characteristics of Metrics B SMART Balanced Specific Measurable Attainable Results Focused Timely Problem Solving Process Step 2 Breakdown Problem ID Gaps Value Waste Analysis 8 Types of Waste Defects Intellect Over production Motion Waiting Excess Inventory Non standard over processing Transportation Always look for waste in processes Customer determines end value Problem Solving Process Step 3 Set Improvement Targets Strategic Visions of what the organization strives to become Tactical Define performance level necessary to make strategic vision a reality Problem Solving Process Step 4 Determine Root Cause Most vital step Avoid efforts directed towards symptoms Find deepest point root w in sphere of influence Brainstorm Quantity not quality Hitchhike Piggyback ideas Make list record ideas Mitigate barriers habit fear inertia prejudice Problem Solving Process Step 4 Determine Root Cause Most vital step Avoid efforts directed towards symptoms Find deepest point root w in sphere of influence Brainstorm Tools 5 Whys Cause Effect Diagram Control Chart Pareto Analysis Problem Solving Process Step 5 Develop Countermeasures Focus on selecting best solution s Have common agreeable criteria Factors of analyzing criteria Effectiveness will it work or prevent reoccurrence Feasibility cost resources time etc Impact job team mission Air Force etc Action plan Clear detailed Consensus ownership Problem Solving Process Step 6 See Countermeasures Through Collect data according to action plan Monitor system Determine performance of tasks Are you hitting the targets Implement contingency plans Provide training Problem Solving Process Step 7 Confirm Results Process Review reassess the solution Ensure plan produced intended results Monitor project for performance Baseline Steps 1 2 B SMART Step 3 Where you thought you would be Meeting targets by deadlines Return to previous steps as necessary Problem Solving Process Step 8 Standardize Successful Processes Most commonly skipped Answer these questions What is needed to standardize improvements Do you have documentation Tech order changes Air Force Instruction AFI changes Operating Instruction OI changes Restart Problem Solving Process or OODA Summary Objective of Problem Solving OODA Loop Problem Solving Process Forms 8 Steps Problem Solving Process