Bulletproof Problem Solving

Chapter TenBecoming a Great Problem Solver

We started the book by outlining the need for creative problem solving capability in all walks of life. There was a time when problem solving was viewed as the domain of a few professions like science, engineering, and management consulting. With the accelerating changes of the twenty‐first century, it is no longer a skill in limited domains but an expectation of individuals and teams across the business, non‐profit, and government sectors. People are increasingly hired based on demonstrated analytic and thinking skills, evaluated for creative problem solving, and promoted for their ability to mobilize agile teams to rapidly address changing demands. This is the problem solving century.

We are convinced that good problem solvers are made not born. In the book we have taken a close look at what great problem solving entails. Our goal has been to help you become confident and creative problem solvers, to feel competent and empowered to employ these techniques for problems at any scale. The seven‐step process we have outlined provides a way to take a business, personal, or societal problem you face and work it through to a solution. The 30 cases we have discussed cover the gamut of problems you are likely to encounter in your work and life. We hope no mystery remains about what is involved in great problem solving.

The seven‐step bulletproof problem solving process doesn't require a degree in higher mathematics or logic. Great problem ...