Problem Solving for Today’s Professional: The What-Why-What-Why Method

Every professional, in the process of their career, will encounter a circumstance which requires solid problem solving skills. Whether it is in the process of fulfilling their daily responsibilities or working on a large project, professionals can find themselves defined by how they approach problem solving. However, today’s professional has to keep several elements in mind.

In the past, problem solving was conducted in a vacuum. Decision makers made educated choices based on their needs and to fulfill their specific territorial demands but with little consideration to other stakeholders. While this methodology may have worked in the past, it is no longer valid today. There are too many people, too many stakeholders, which may be impacted by even the simplest decision; therefore, it is important to keep those individuals in mind when making and implementing a decision.

The best way to approach problem solving is to answer four questions: What is the problem, why is it is a problem, what is the solution, and why this solution works for everyone involved. This is the What-Why-What-Why Method.

What is the problem: This is the opportunity to clearly define the problem and clarify perceptions. You will approach it in a black and white manner. You’re simply getting the issue out into the open for discussion. Once this is done, it is time to move onto the next step. An example would be “the problem is you made policy changes without contacting me first.”

Why is it a problem: At this juncture, you will establish why this is an issue for you. To carry the example into this step, the appropriate response would be “this is a problem for me because these policy changes directly affect the way we’re able to process payroll.” It is best to speak in facts and not opinions. What this means is you need to quantify and qualify your problem. For example, “your policy changes mean we only have two hours to process payroll which is not enough time. We need at least five hours.”

What is the solution: This is when you will inject your “fix.” You will need to be clear and concise.

Why this solution works for everyone involved: It is important your solution includes why it works best for everyone and not just you. In the payroll example, there must have been a reason why the policy was changed. So, when creating a solution to the problem – keep that reason in mind. And while your solution may be a brilliant fix for you, it may not work for them. There could be something which you did not take into consideration, so dialogue is vital.

Once you have answered these four questions, your problem solving skills will become more effective and efficient. It will force you to consider others in your decision making, as well as your decision’s overall effect on the company. Even the smallest decision can have an impact on others but to minimize that impact, simply remember the What-Why-What-Why method.