ABSTRACT
Once the root cause(s) of a problem have been identified, the next responsibility of the team is to determine potential solutions. There are many effective approaches to problem resolution, but one that is exceptionally helpful is the Solution Strategies Matrix. The Solution Strategies Matrix is a set of procedures that helps the team direct its efforts in a systematic way to consider the resources needed, cost to implement, payback period, management receptivity, difficulty to implement, etc. The team should understand brainstorming and be willing to invest the time necessary to complete this important component of the process. A copy of a blank Solution Strategies Matrix should be available for each member. The categories are not written in stone, and teams may decide to eliminate some of those suggested, or add a few of their own. In many ways, the Solution Strategies Matrix resembles the Priority Selection Worksheets tool.
