Module nine selecting a solution. The next step in the process is to select one or more solutions from the possibilities. In the previous step, you will have eliminated many of the possibilities. With a shortlist of possibilities, you can do a final analysis to come up with one or more of the best solutions to the problem. This module discusses that final analysis as well as the tool for selecting a solution called paired comparison analysis. It also discusses analyzing potential problems that may arise with a selected solution.
Doing a final analysis. In the previous stage of the process, you performed a cost benefit analysis. However, since we cannot always know all the potential variables, this analysis should not be the only one you perform. For each potential solution, you must weigh the potential advantages and disadvantages. Instead of the compatibility with your priorities and values. Consider how much risk the solution involves Consider the practicality of the solution, it may be helpful to create a map for each solution that addresses all the relevant issues.
Consider the potential results of each solution, both the immediate results and the long term possibilities. In the final analysis, you will refine your shortlist and keep refining it until you determine the most effective solution. Paired comparison analysis, the paired comparison analysis tool is the method of prioritizing a small number of workable solutions. The first step for using this tool is to list all the possible solutions, label each potential solution with a letter or number. Next, compare the solutions in pairs. Decide only between those two which solution is preferable.
Assign a number to indicate the strength of the preference for each option. For example, problem solvers could assign a three to items they strongly prefer a two to a moderate preference or a one to one Mild preference. This first round continues to at a time until all of the solutions are ranked, then all of the ranks are added together to obtain a priority score for each item. The top score is the preferred solution. Paired comparison analysis continued. For example, imagine that a group of children are deciding which fairytale to perform in a school play, they have listed six favorites.
In this example, the clear winner is choice D or jack and the Beanstalk analyzing potential problems. Looking forward to the solution implementation, ask how when who, what and where in relation to implementing the solution. Does the imagined future state with this problem solution match the desired state developed earlier in the process? brainstorm for potential problems related to the solution instead or how long potential problems might occur and how serious they are. These potential issues can then be evaluated as needs and once along with the other criteria for evaluating the solution. Sometimes this analysis can uncover a potential hardship or opportunity that changes the criteria, problem definition, or other aspects of the problem solving process.
Remember to be flexible and revisit the other stages of the process when necessary.