ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses a structured approach to problem solving. Problems encountered in project work are a combination of a number of things and it is a trap to go casting around looking for the one right answer that will put all right. What impacts project performance? To explore this use a fish bone or herring bone technique to break down performance into its component parts. This is a problem-solving method that gives a visual representation of the areas that could be contributing to a problem. When gathering data about a problem it has to be done dispassionately. As facts are collected it is too easy to leap to conclusions and make inappropriate decisions. Having decided to take action it needs an implementation plan. It is important to try and identify which of the options will bring the most change for the least effort.
