Problem Solving

Problem solving refers to the structured and disciplined approach for finding solutions to problems. All Arizona state employees are expected to use  problem-solving tools and methods (e.g., 4 Box, 5 Why, fishbone diagram, Pareto chart) in their day-to-day work.  

Leaders and teams document the problem-solving life cycle on an A3 (11x17-inch) form to identify and scope the problem, define the target future state of improvement, present relevant data to document the existing current state, identify countermeasures to be taken, as well as results of those actions and any new issues that arose. Lastly, the A3 presents how improvements will be sustained by documenting standard work and ways to monitor future, ongoing results.