Problem Solving Overview Objective of Problem Solving AF

Problem Solving

Overview • Objective of Problem Solving • AF Practical Problem Solving Model (PPSM) – 8 Step Model

Objective of Problem Solving • Objective – Help Airmen focus on problem solving skills that affect: • Mission • Workcenters • People – Approach aimed at: • Increasing combat capability • Making the 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

Practical Problem Solving Method

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • Step 2: Breakdown Problem/ID Gaps – Gather & Review Key Data – Six Characteristics of Metrics (B-SMART) • • • Balanced Specific Measurable Attainable Results Focused Timely

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Practical Problem Solving Method • 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

Summary • Objective of Problem Solving • AF Practical Problem Solving Model (PPSM) – 8 Step Model

Practical Problem Solving Method