THE OPEN SOLUTION METHODOLOGY APPROACH TO PROBLEM SOLVING

Abstract

This research originates from the requirement to model organisations or areas within organisations as systems. In the modelling process models are built which incorporates the system's components and relationships in their natural states. Through the understanding gained, system related problems are resolved by the application of appropriate problem solving techniques. A generic problem solving methodology which formalizes this approach is presented as the Open Solution Methodology. The Open Solution Methodology is based on a number of characteristics, concepts, guidelines, phases and models taken from existing methodologies such as the Soft Systems Methodology, IDEF and Information Engineering. The result is a methodology which provides the ability to model the components of a system, integrate these models with solution techniques, develop solutions, and implement the selected solutions. This approach differs from current problem solving methodologies which employ predefined solution techniques based on predefined relationships to resolve problems. The following example illustrates the application of the Open Solution Methodology. An organisation which supplies air traffic control services experiences problems with its air traffic control personnel, who complain about high work loads. In order to address and resolve this problem, the system to be modelled during the first phase of the application of the Open Solution Methodology is defined as the air traffic service department. Based on this system definition the appropriate Open Solution Methodology models are selected to model the system. These models provide an accurate and reliable description of the current system with a specific focus on the work load of air traffic control personnel. In the second phase of the application of the methodology, these models are used to select the appropriate problem solving techniques; in this instance, organisation design, simulation modelling and mathematical forecasting. Using the models and techniques, alternative solutions for alleviating the high work load are generated. In the final phase of the application the selected solutions are implemented in the organisation by means of a new organisation structure, a computerised air traffic forecasting tool, and a management training programme.