An important step in the problem solving problem, before you dive into solving a problem, is doing your preliminary research and due diligence.

A question you must ask yourself, Do You Have to Solve the Problem?

If you decide that the problem has to be solved you must then ask the question, Can You Work Around the Problem?

Perhaps after doing research, prior to diving in, you might discover that there is a pathway around the problem where you can take the easier route.

Importance of Research

• Avoid Tunnel Vision: Without research, you might default to the most apparent solution, which may not be the best one. Take a step back from the stress of the moment to do some preliminary research.
• Balance Research and Action: While research is crucial, too much research can lead to procrastination. Aim to find a balance where you do enough research to inform your actions but not so much that it delays solving the problem.

Learning from Others

• Common Problems: Most problems are common, and many people have attempted to solve them before. Research the history of problem-solving in your area to find patterns or blueprints.
• Patterns and Blueprints: These are established methods or solutions that have been proven to work. For example, building a house involves known blueprints for structure, earthquake safety, and fire safety. Don't reinvent the wheel.

Leveraging Existing Knowledge

• Avoiding Ego-Driven Approaches: Trying to solve everything on your own without research is inefficient and error-prone. Instead, leverage existing knowledge and expertise to save time and avoid mistakes.
• Industry Documentation: Every industry has documented best practices and solutions. Even if you are working on a new design, most of the foundational knowledge is already available.

Professional Problem Solving

• Mandatory Research: In professional settings, such as engineering, business, or any job, conducting research on existing patterns and best practices is essential. Skipping this step can lead to suboptimal solutions and wasted effort.
• Minimizing Problems: By understanding and applying existing patterns, the number of new problems you need to solve is significantly reduced.

Conclusion

Conducting preliminary research and due diligence is a critical step in the problem-solving process. It helps you find potential workarounds, avoid common pitfalls, and leverage existing knowledge to arrive at the best possible solution efficiently.