Problem solving skills in the workplace?

Question

What skills do you think one would need to have good problem solving skills in the workplace? This is for a school assignment. Thanks

Answer 1

Dividing the problem down to eliminate everything it isn't.
I did tech support for years and when a customer would call we would problem solve. First you ask general questions to eliminate what it isn't. I usually ask when the problem started and if anything else started at the same time. So if they got new hardware it could be the issue if they reinstalled software that could be the issue. Reproduce the problem, does it happen every time or randomly? If random how often and what else might be happening? Does it happen to everyone or just one person? Is it only one workstation? Can someone else use that workstation with a different log in and have the problem not happen.
Soon you have eliminated log in errors, permission issues, hardware issues, network and phone issues but there is something you can't eliminate so that is probably it. If the problem was reproducible you can document when it happens and write up a software bug, when the bug is fixed you can test it.

Answer 2

Solving problems gives me a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. The traits I have that I believe make me a good problem-solver include:

Curiosity: Being driven to know. What exactly IS the problem and what could possibly be the solution? What similar problems/solutions can I find that may apply?

Resourcefulness (aka creativity): Looking in every possible place, under every rock. "Where can I find information that will help me better understand the problem? Who might be a good resource for guidance?"

Tenacity: Keeping at it past hitting a brick wall or two. "What leads have I not exhausted? What clues might I have missed?"

Good question!

Joyce

Answer 3

Analyze a situation, not get emotionally involved, remain calm and polite, able to find resolutions that are satisfactory to the customer or between employees or for the employer, able to take leadership role and reponsibility for your actions, able to work with/ and actively listen in a group.