Problem Solving Model

Humans have an innate problem-solving approach: When faced with a problem we don't know how to solve, we try to think of a similar, analogous problem for which there is a known solution. Then, with this known solution in mind, we try to devise an analogous solution to the problem we are trying to solve.

The chances that we will succeed using this approach is determined by:

• Our knowledge of problems with known solutions that we have accumulated through education and experience. This knowledge is needed to make the analogical "leap" from our new problem to the analogous problem.
• Our ability to devise a solution to our new problem from the analogous solution (another analogical leap).

We can use I-TRIZ to help fill these analogical gaps by:

1. Formulating our problem in terms of specific tasks using functional modeling. 
2. Accessing known problem-solution sets (Operators) applicable for these tasks.
3. Using the resources in and around the system to translate (via physical, chemical, geometric and other effects) an analogous solution into a specific solution.