Problem Solving: Part 3

A problem isn't necessarily a "problem", it could be a challenge or it could just be an opportunity.

Let's consider football for a moment. The team with the ball is presented with a "problem" getting the ball to the end-zone.  Staying within the constraints of the rules, a team endeavors to succeed and solve the problem.



This is an example of creative problem solving! Everyone expected a "Hut!" before the ball was hiked, the ball being hiked through the legs of the center. The quarterback moving fast, instead of slowly walking. However, the savvy quarterback did what no one expected.

This also is a perfect example of a OODA loop in action. The time it took the defensive team to Observe, Orientate, Decide what to do and Act was exactly enough time for the quarterback to slowly walk to a point that he could run for the touchdown.

I have always been on the lookout for problems! Problems for me usually also mean opportunity. I have my methods for identifying them as such... it typically means not only looking at the problem but also looking at it's opposite.

Here's one idea I always go by and this is usually why "problems" in my mind, are a good thing. Freedom equals prosperity! Typically when a construction project is in trouble the principles are willing to listen to creative ideas. Freedom to be creative!

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I'm no salesman but Harvey McCay, a well know author, says that the sweetest event a salesman dreams of is to hear the sound of his or her name crossing the lips of a someone else.  But how that is accomplished is... up to the imagination. I would propose listening. Listening to what the potential client is saying. When you have many solutions (products and services of one's group) then listening to the potential client. Is certainly important. Solving problems that would otherwise go unnoticed can make that problem solving salesperson into the first one considered everytime a problem presents itself.