practice, you will probably need to adjust this sequence to fit the moment. Developments in one phase may cause you to readjust or reconsider factors in a previous step. The following are the seven steps to problem solving: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Recognize the problem Gather the data List all possible solutions Test/discuss possible solutions Select the best possible solution Implement Follow-up RECOGNIZE THE PROBLEM Can you take a trip without first deciding what method of transportation to use or without knowing where you want to go? Obviously, you must recognize your need to get from one place to another. Secondly, you must know your goals or the place you intend to visit. You must consider the obstacles such as cost, time, available transportation, and routes to take. The above factors contribute to recognizing your problem through analysis of the elements. GATHER THE DATA You now have a goal and you have identified the things that stand between you and success. Next, you must get all the information you need to solve the problem. You need to know about road conditions as well as bus, train, and airline schedules and fares. Divide this information into the following categories: Facts–These are known truths. For example, you can call the highway patrol for road conditions, you can consult schedules for trip times, and a map will provide distance information. Assumptions–Some data is assumed, such as the accuracy of information concerning fares and possible routes. Criteria–A criterion is a standard of judging. This is most important in data gathering. It is a rule by which you measure such things as facts, principles, opinions, and assumptions. In problem solving, you should always have some criteria to consider. For example, you might consider criteria such as the following: departure must be between 0800 and 1000, arrival must be before 1700, luggage must include two suitcases and a trunk, and travel money is limited to . The criteria will help you decide which method of travel to use. The bus may be too slow. The train may leave too early. Airfare may exceed available funds. Whatever criteria you set up will help you decide between alternatives. LIST ALL POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS Where do you find possible solutions? You may get ideas almost immediately. The longer you study, consider,  and  think  about  solutions,  the  more alternatives you will have. Solving the first two steps to problem solving should generate some viable alternatives along the way. TEST/DISCUSS POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS In every instance, you should consider each possible solution against the established criteria. Evaluate your solution by asking yourself or others the following questions: Is the solution suitable? Will this solution produce the desired results? Will it do the job? Is the solution feasible? Do the means for completing the job by this method exist? Can the job be accomplished this way? Is the solution acceptable? Is the solution going to be cost-effective? Will it fit command directives? Even if the solution is cheaper, will it be more time-consuming? SELECT THE BEST POSSIBLE SOLUTION At this point, you can decide on the best solution by eliminating those that do not meet your criteria. For example, in planning your trip, you may eliminate rail, bus, and air travel because they do not fit your criteria. You may decide that driving your car is the best solution to the problem. Of course most problems are not this simple. You will frequently find two or more alternatives that meet all your criteria. You must then decide which will be the best. This may well be the hardest part of decision making because it causes you to fall into a mission-oriented frame of reference. Which alternative is best for the overall mission? Which will best dovetail with other ongoing projects? Which pays the most dividends in the long run? 4-12