problemløsningsskjemaer

Problemløsning, or problem solving, is the process of identifying a gap between the current situation and a desired goal and taking steps to close that gap. It applies across domains—from everyday decisions to engineering, education, and public policy. The term encompasses cognitive work, collaboration, and systematic approaches.

A typical problemløsning process includes several stages: defining the problem, analyzing causes and constraints, generating a range of potential solutions, evaluating and selecting a plan, implementing the chosen solution, and reviewing outcomes to learn and adjust. The emphasis and methods used can vary by context, but the goal is to arrive at effective, feasible, and sustainable outcomes.

Common methods include root cause analysis, such as the 5 Whys, and cause-and-effect diagrams to identify underlying issues. Structured decision-making, design thinking, and the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle are widely used to promote iteration, user involvement, and continuous improvement. Creative thinking and critical thinking are often combined to broaden options and assess trade-offs.

Problem solving can be undertaken by individuals or groups. Individual approaches rely on knowledge, reasoning, and creativity, while group problem solving benefits from diverse perspectives and collaborative techniques, though it may be affected by dynamics and biases.

Effective problemløsning requires clear framing, access to relevant information, and appropriate resources. It benefits from measurable criteria, milestones, and feedback mechanisms to monitor progress and adjust as needed. Limitations include misframing the problem, cognitive biases, resource constraints, and the possibility that some problems have no single best solution, requiring ongoing adaptation.