The Seven Steps Of The Army Problem Solving Process

The elements of thought, as described by Dr. Paul and Dr. Elder, include many of the same steps as the army problem solving process, with a few important and significant additions. The army problem solving process includes the following seven steps: Gathering information and knowledge, identifying the problem, developing the criteria, generating possible solutions, analyzing possible solutions, comparing possible solutions, and making and implementing the decision . When utilized in conjunction with the problem solving process, the elements of thought provide an expansion of the analysis of the problem and a wider breadth of the problem’s potential solutions. In addition, the elements of thought include the need to consider different points …show more content…
This part of the process is important to understanding the true nature of the problem, and any potential contributing factors. While the army problem solving process does not specify a requirement to consider different points of view, Dr. Paul and Dr. Elder include this as part of the foundation for effective critical and creative thinking skills. Without this step, Dr. Paul and Dr. Elder believe that an individual’s thinking often becomes biased, lacks required information, and risks being prejudicial . When an officer ensures that they includes differences in point of view in the problem solving process it allows for an expansion of the potential solutions for the problem, and prevents partial decisions and poor quality solutions. It is important to note that each individual is made up of their own preconceived notions and views of the world, and these inherent differences may provide innovative solutions to problems that exist. If the officer does not include an attempt to understand the world from a different point of view in the army problem solving process, the thinking and problem solving potential shrinks to their own sphere of experiences and their ability to problem solve is at risk of becoming myopic and ineffective. An army officer …show more content…
By effectively utilizing existing concepts and theories, which are included in the sixth element of thought, the officer is able to provide a common language and organization of the information surrounding the problem. This allows for a clear picture of the problem and any potential solutions. During this step, officers are also considering the implications and consequences of potential solutions to the problem, which is synonymous with the eighth element of thought, implications and consequences. This step also involves the analysis of assumptions and risks associated with each potential solution, which is considered the seventh element of thought
The next three steps in the army problem solving process include generating possible solutions, analyzing possible solutions, and comparing possible solutions. During all three of these steps, the army officer is making inferences and assumptions based on the information they have gathered, which is included in the fifth element of thought. For each proposed solution, the officer should also consider the implications and consequences of the potential solutions, which is the last of the elements of