PROBLEM SOLVING
Problem-solving involves understanding how to choose your next course of action by considering multiple approaches. This skill requires decision-making, organizing and managing info to find the most feasible option.
WHAT IS PROBLEM SOLVING? >
INITIAL TASK
During the final phase of the fast fix project, I had to make final revisions for my repair guide. At this point, we were given a checklist to make sure we have followed specific standards by iFixit. When I was in the process of answering the questions for my guide text, a question struck me. They asked if my written directions were easy enough to understand for a general audience with a below-average technical background. Besides, they also inquired if my steps were free from verbose and muddled directions (Fast Fix Checklist — iFixit EDU, 2020).
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Then, I realized that my biggest obstacle was knowing what kind of decision should I make to effectively communicate with my audience. I needed to evaluate many possible structures that fit iFixit standards, but simultaneously develop my own criteria to improve the current process.
MY ACTIONS
My first action was to organize and manage information using the iFixit provided template format to resolve this conflict. I tried to examine if there were any consistent patterns and themes that made their examples easier to comprehend. Then, I realized that they had many ways to approach their audience with clear instructions and effective communication. At this point, my biggest challenge was to determine the most significant priority that improves my existing process (Willison et al.).
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My first option was to prioritize sentence brevity in instructions by combining sentences (O'Regan). Then, the second option was to break down steps into multiple components to not overwhelm my readers. Although they both sound reasonable, I still had to practice my decision-making skills by choosing the most effective option. This decision must bring new insights to my guide. Therefore, I evaluated the most effective choice by reflecting on my previous work on analyzing genre on "technical writing." After reflection, I realized that the iFixit structure and format (i.e., syntax editing) enhances technical writing.
RESULTS
Overall, the most effective option is to renew the existing process and make my guide more dynamic. I based my decision based on multiple criteria. For instance, I discovered that in extra steps for Checkpoints 1 and 2, instructional text becomes more refined with concise language and active voice. Then, in iFixit education guidelines, they recommend us to make proper use of syntax formatting.
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As a result, I have decided to break down verbose instructions into multiple components. This condition is achieved by applying note, caution and colour bullets when necessary in getting my points across to the intended audience. One can infer that this skill becomes beneficial for future workplaces. Problem-solving skills, such as decision-making become critical in finding the next course of action. The process of decision making needs one to evaluate, reflect, organize and manage their work. Therefore, this progress becomes critical for finding the most feasible approach that provides value to the company.
IFIXIT GUIDE
This guide illustrates the problem-solving skills I have developed in this course. Problem-solving involves organizing and managing data, along with decision-making.