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Complex problem-solving No matter the industry, all businesses face complex problems. But not all employees are equipped to solve these problems – that’s where you come in. By practising and learning to solve complex problems, you can potentially add real value to a company. Let’s explore how to do this. Increasingly, complex problems in companies are overcome using automation and artificial intelligence, but in many cases, companies still need employees to be experts at finding solutions. Let’s take a look at solving a Rubik's cube, and how this can relate to solving a complex problem.
Pick one colour to start with Any expert Rubik’s cube solver knows that the first step is to pick a colour that you will start with. This colour should either be a colour you like, or one that seems easy based on how many connected pieces there are to it. In problem-solving: Start with a part of the problem that you can relate to, and that seems easiest or least complicated to solve. This also means to start by focussing on the essentials – what can solve the immediate problem? Often, your brain will become overwhelmed if you try to focus on too many things at once, so narrow the problem down to the core.
Understand the mechanics To solve a Rubik’s Cube, you need to understand that the centre cubes cannot move. You also need to know, therefore, that the centrepiece determines the colour of the side. If, for example, your chosen colour is in front of you, the colour on the other side will always be the colour of the centrepiece on that side. In problem-solving: Get to know the problem. Divide it into parts – as many parts as needed. Get to know how each of these parts interact or influence each other. Predict what would happen if you changed one of these elements – this will help you to understand the deeper workings of the problem. 22 / CAREERS SERVICE GUIDE 2021
