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7 Steps of the Unique Problem Solving Strategy ‘Fish Technique’


Problem Solving

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Unit Summary

‘Fish Technique’ is one of the most used techniques in today’s organizations.
7 steps for the unique problem solving Fish Technique:
  • Write the problem down on the right side of a white sheet of paper.
  • Draw a straight line from the problem all the way across to the left side of the paper.
  • Connect each cause with a line to the spine of the fish.
  • Gather more information and find possible causes for the causes in point 3 above. Connect these with smaller lines to the main causes in point 3.
  • Brainstorm many possible solutions.
  • Decide on the most appropriate solution to implement and take action.
  • Feedback is very essential in making sure of the impact of the solution.

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In this unit, you will learn about one of the best-known techniques used in all organizations to solve problems. This technique is called ‘Fish Technique’ and it focuses on cause and effect. Using this helps businesses find the root causes of the problem thus defining their problems accurately.
The reason for the name is that the diagram used in this technique is shaped like the skeleton bones of a fish.
Here are the 7 steps for the unique problem solving Fish Technique:
  • Write the problem down on the right side of a white sheet of paper. This represents the head of the fish.
  • Draw a straight line from the problem all the way across to the left side of the paper. This line represents the backbone of the fish.
  • Write down causes of the problem, connecting each cause with a line to the spine of the fish. These represent the first bones of the fish diagram.
  • Gather more information and find possible causes for the causes in point 3 above. Connect these with smaller lines to the main causes in point 3. These will represent the smaller fine bones of the fish. In this way you will break down the problem into the main root causes making it clearer what the actual problem is.
  • Brainstorm many possible solutions. Solutions are ones that eliminate the root cause preventing the problem from reoccurring.
  • Decide on the most appropriate solution to implement and take action. The best solution may be the one that meets the business’s interest. Factors such as cost, duration and complexity must be taken into consideration while finding the appropriate solution.
  • Feedback is very essential in making sure of the impact of the solution. In other words, making sure your solution has not created extra problems and has removed what was an obstacle in your business’s path to success.
As explained, ‘Fish Technique’ is one of the most used techniques in today’s organizations. We suggest you use it in finding excellent solutions to your problems making it a unique challenging experience!