There are a ton of problem-solving frameworks out there. While they look easy and intuitive when delivered as part of training, most people don't use them. This makes good problem solvers seem to have extra knowledge and intelligence. On the contrary, by using some hacks, everyone can improve their problem-solving abilities to a certain level.
Here is one tip to elevate your problem-solving: Deliberately do a Zoom-in / Zoom-out mental exercise.
Start with whatever analysis or solution you have until now and do the following:
To Zoom In
Try asking these questions:
- Are there more components of this which I have not considered?
- Which data fields will allow me to cut the data into more fragments?
- We know what to do in a week, but what about tomorrow?
To Zoom Out
Try asking these questions:
- How does this impact my KRAs?
- How does my work relate to my colleagues'?
- What are the priorities of my boss/super boss, and how does my work fit in?