Problem Analysis

Problem Definition and

Identification
General problem solving
process
The five steps useful in the logical and systematic
approach to solving almost any problem
are:
1. Problem definition (Problem analysis)
2. Analysis of the problem (Causal analysis)
3. Search for possible solutions (Decision
analysis)
4. Evaluation of alternatives (Design
improvement)
5. Recommendation for action (Systems
implementation)
“It's not a problem that we have a problem. It's a
problem if we don't deal with the problem.”
--Mary Kay Utech
The DMAIC Process 3
Problem definition

 The most difficult part of the process,

particularly if there is a rush to get going
 Must have a good and complete description
of the need, expressed in quantitatively
related performance parameters where
possible
 A comprehensive statement of the problem
should be presented in specific qualitative
and quantitative terms, in enough detail to
justify progressing to the next step
Problem definition

 A needs analysis must be performed with the

objective of translating a broadly defined
“want” into a more specific system-level
requirement
 During needs analysis, it is important to
consider all elements of the system such as
prime equipment, operator/personnel,
operational software, operating facilities, and
associated operational data and information
Problem definition

The criteria that define a problem:

 an expected level of performance is not

being achieved
 the cause of the unacceptable
performance is unknown
Problem definition

Examples: Suppose a current system capability is

 not adequate in terms of meeting certain
required performance goals
 not available when needed
 cannot be properly supported
 too costly to operate
 lack of capability to communicate from point
A to point B, at desired rate X, with a reliability
of Y, and within specified cost of Z
Problem identification

 Problems may be describe using four

dimensions:
• WHAT – the identity (object or group of
objects) of the deviation we are trying to
explain
• WHERE – the location
• WHEN – the timing
• EXTENT – the magnitude
The output will be the “IS” and “IS NOT”
Specify the “is”
Specify the “is not”

 Describe factually what the deviation

“could be but is not” to narrow search for
causes and eliminate untrue causes
 ask questions in pairs: for each IS, ask
questions to find IS NOTs that are:
• similar to the IS
• related to the IS
• specific
• factual
• “... could be, but IS NOT”
Specify the “is not”
Sample problem statements

 10% of the products appear to have

mismatched color on adjoining panels A &B.
 A pool of oil is found under the left front
corner of grinding machine 2.
 From January to March 2017, Production
Department of ABC Company was not able
to meet target quota by 10%, 20% and 30%
respectively.
PROBLEM ANALYSIS EXAMPLE:

MAPUA LIBRARY
Problem Definition
 Conducted a survey

 Used Slovin’s Formula with 95% confidence level

 Surveyed 334 students
Problem Definition
Problem Definition
 Problem Identification
Kepner-Tregoe Analysis
 Problem Identification
Kepner-Tregoe Analysis
Problem Statement