The Army Problem Solving Process: Methodological Method

The Army Problem Solving Process has become the rule of thumb for problem solving and is a methodological approach for making decisions. Followed correctly, it leads to the “best” decisions given the degree of uncertainty and complexity of a situation. The Army Problem Solving Process is a tool that provides a standard, systematic method to define and analyze a problem, gather information, develop criteria, generate and analyze possible solutions, choose the best solution and implement an action plan that solves the problem.1
The Army Problem Solving Process is rooted on several assumptions: the model is linear in nature, information required to make decisions is readily available, there is an expectation that all options generated can be compared and evaluated, the environment is presumed to be relatively stable/predictable and there is sufficient time to complete the process.2 This tool facilitates decision-making, but it is accompanied by a wide range of opportunities for failure in critical thinking that can lead to bad decisions.
Point of view, assumptions and inferences are meant to demonstrate that the Elements of Thought is a non-linear model. 16 Assumptions, for instance, will affect whether an individual perceives an issue worthy of critical thinking and point of view will impact how the boundaries of the issue at hand are defined. For example, as new information becomes available to the decision maker, assumptions and inferences may change. Changes in information will generate new questions, impact point of view, or require new concepts.17 A leader’s point of view is going to have a significant impact on how he or she recognizes issues and chooses to solve them based on personal background, beliefs, operational experience and organizational priorities. Point of view helps critical thinkers to consider and even understand and empathize with the view of others on an