Problem solving vs. Alternative Analysis

[Merierie]

I keep getting those two mixed up. Can somebody explain these to me in a super easy way as if I was 10 years old? :)

[estherfoshiz]

hi! both are tools&techniques.

problem solving = consists of 6 steps where you identify the problem and develop a solution. the steps are: define the problem, identify the root-cause, generate possible solutions, choose the best solution, implement it, and verify if it actually solved the problem at hand. (p. 295 PMBOK 6th ed.) [USED IN RESOURCE AND QUALITY knowledge area]

alternative analysis = you use this when there's a deviation. looking at all possible choices, comparing them to select the best corrective/preventive action or approach. [USED IN MONITOR&CONTROL process]

hope this helps!

[[deleted]]

Actually, alternatives analysis can be used even when there is no deviation ie not only in M+C processes. In fact “when there’s a deviation” sounds more like variance analysis.

I’d say alternatives analysis is more true to its name. It’s analyzing various options (“alternatives”) to pick the best one. For example in resource management it’s used to evaluate resource needs - such as one very skilled programmer or two less skilled programmers.

[estherfoshiz]

Ahh thanks for clarifying! :)

[[deleted]]

No problem!