When we conduct Problem Analysis and Solving (AySP) at work or in daily life, the problem often remains unresolved because we make mistakes in the analysis and solution process.
The 7 most common errors in problem solving are:
1. Failing to define the problem properly – In the AySP process, this is fundamental, yet also the most difficult and complex step. If the problem is not defined properly from the beginning, it will never be solved. One way to correct this is to ask ourselves:
What is the problem, and what is not?
Where's the problem and where isn't it?
When does the problem occur and when does it not?
How big's the problem and how big isn't it?
2. A bad team from AySP – This happens when we are unsure who should be on the team and invite everyone we think belongs, although some do not actually need to participate. Analysis takes much longer, some people become frustrated and may even stop contributing—including those who really should be involved.
To prevent this, always form teams of no more than 8 participants, ensuring each member fully understands their role, why they are there and how to participate actively in the AySP process.
3. Containment actions that become permanent corrective actions - This often happens when, for example, you send a part for rework to correct a defect. That is a containment action. When rework becomes routine, people treat it as a permanent corrective action—but it is not, because the root cause of the defect remains unresolved and keeps recurring. In this example, instead of solving a problem, you are “adopting” a larger one.
4. Corrective actions that do not correct – Another major mistake is establishing actions that do not actually correct anything or are insufficient. For example, thinking every problem can be solved through training. No: training is very important, but it does not always solve everything. Identify which actions beyond training are needed to correct the problem, rather than leaving everything to training.
5. Failing to consider all opinions and ideas in Root Cause Analysis – when we act like know-it-alls and think other people's opinions—especially those outside our area—do not matter, we make a serious mistake. That person who “does not know more than you” may have a different perspective and see something you cannot because of the familiar “workshop blindness.”
A very important rule when brainstorming in Root Cause Analysis is to listen to all opinions and never discard an idea.
6. Do not put in place preventive actions - POf course, most of us stop at correction. But what about prevention? What do you do to ensure it truly never happens again? A colossal mistake: we must always learn from problems so they never recur.
7. Failing to document the problem analysis and its solution – For anything you do not document, how can you ensure it will not happen again? That is the point: we cannot, because we never document it. Knowledge is therefore not shared, eventually allowing similar problems to recur.
As you can see, avoiding these mistakes can ensure that your Problem Analysis and Solving (AySP) process is effective enough and is actually Solving Problems.
Good luck and if you haven't solved your problems, we can help you!
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