Problem Solving helps teams to make problems visible, understand causes, and implement improvements step by step.
Symbol helps organisations to embed Kaizen, PDCA, and structured problem-solving into their daily way of working.
Problem Solving focuses on solving problems in a structured way and preventing recurrence. Teams analyse what is actually happening, look for causes, and test improvements that make the process better, more stable, or more reliable.
Within CIMM Level 2, Problem Solving is closely linked to Kaizen: continuous improvement in small, practical steps. Improvements originate at the Gemba, the place where the work happens, and are carried out using the PDCA cycle: Plan, Do, Check, Act.
In certain sectors (such as automotive and high-tech), the 8D approach is also widely followed. For this, please see our 8D Problem Solving training.
Problem Solving follows the PDCA approach. Teams first understand the problem, define and implement the solution, check the effect, and embed the improvement in daily practice. An alternative to the PDCA approach is the 8D methodology.
Map out the problem based on facts from the field. Observe at the Gemba, listen to employees, and investigate where deviations, waste, or bottlenecks occur.
Develop a practical countermeasure and test it on a small scale. The emphasis is on learning by doing, rather than lengthy analysis without action.
When the solution works, it is recorded in the standard way of working. New insights are used as a basis for further improvement.
Problem Solving only delivers results when teams look beyond symptoms and investigate the actual causes of deviations. A fixed improvement rhythm makes problems visible, ensures ownership, and supports the follow-up of actions according to PDCA. Solutions are tested, evaluated, and recorded in updated work standards so that problems do not return.
Symbol helps organisations to set this up practically with Kaizen events, root cause analyses, and improvement workshops centred around current problems on the shop floor.
Within CIMM Level 2, Problem Solving is secured when employees actively signal deviations, apply analytical techniques, carry out improvement actions, and include successful solutions in the daily standard way of working for all teams involved.
Symbol teaches organisations to tackle problems more effectively. To this end, we train employees in the Kaizen PDCA approach, in Problem Solving and RCA techniques, and in the 8D methodology. This enables teams to better identify and eliminate the root cause of a problem. This leads to an improvement in performance and fewer (customer) complaints.