Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Strategic Problem Solving: A Step-by-Step Guide to Solve Hard Problems: Leverage Data Analysis and Critical Thinking to Make Smart Decisions, Drive Innovation, and Lead with Confidence

Rate this book
Transform Your Approach to Problem-Solving and Strategic Decision Making

In today's complex business environment, the ability to solve problems systematically and make strategic decisions effectively is more crucial than ever. This comprehensive guide presents a proven seven-step framework that breaks down the science of problem-solving into practical, actionable steps.

Drawing from years of experience in business consulting and leadership development, this book guides you through a powerful methodology that encompasses the complete problem-solving from defining the challenge, breaking it down into manageable pieces, and prioritizing for impact, through to creating actionable work plans, applying critical analysis, communicating solutions effectively, and ensuring successful implementation.

Through this systematic approach, you'll learn how

Define and identify problems with precision and clarityBreak down complex challenges into manageable componentsPrioritize elements for maximum impactDevelop structured work plans and timelinesApply critical thinking techniques to analyze data and situationsCommunicate solutions that inspire actionImplement and support lasting changeWhat sets this book apart is its focus on real-world application. Each chapter includes clear descriptions and explanations, case studies, and examples from various industries, demonstrating how these seven steps have been successfully applied in diverse business contexts.

Perfect

Business leaders and executivesManagement consultants and analystsMBA students and business school graduatesProfessionals seeking to enhance their decision-making skillsAnyone looking to develop a more structured approach to problem-solvingWhether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this book provides the framework and tools you need to tackle complex challenges with confidence. By mastering these seven proven techniques, you'll be prepared to make better decisions, drive organizational change, and achieve superior results in any business environment.

Transform your approach to problem-solving and decision-making. Scroll up and add to your cart!


143 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 17, 2024

747 people are currently reading
66 people want to read

About the author

Mark Hartley

35 books1 follower

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
30 (37%)
4 stars
23 (29%)
3 stars
15 (18%)
2 stars
9 (11%)
1 star
2 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Profile Image for Alex Mahon.
116 reviews
April 18, 2025
The book outlines a structured approach to critical thinking and problem solving, with a focus on frameworks such as the seven-step process, logic trees, root cause analysis, and tools like the 5 Whys. The ideas themselves are generally solid and useful, especially for beginners. However, the way they are presented leaves much to be desired.

Most of the examples feel contrived or hypothetical, with phrases like "imagine this scenario…" used in place of actual case studies. Tools such as fishbone diagrams, mind maps, and even the 5 Whys are mentioned without any proper visual examples, making them harder to internalise or apply.

It reads like something summarised by a well-trained AI rather than a professional with deep experience in problem-solving practice. The tone is repetitive in parts, and there is little to no emphasis on real-world application, especially in technical or software contexts (outside of the hypotheticals).

In short, while the content may be directionally helpful, the lack of rigour, real examples, and practical depth makes it feel more like a long-form blog post than a complete book. It is a useful primer, but not something you would rely on to lead teams through high-stakes problem solving.
34 reviews
February 23, 2025
Mastering the Puzzle: A Smart Guide to Strategic Problem-Solving

Strategic Problem Solving is a well-structured and insightful book that equips readers with the tools to tackle complex challenges with clarity and confidence. Whether in business, personal life, or decision-making, the book provides a logical framework to break down tough problems, analyze solutions, and implement effective strategies.
This book contains a step-by-step approach: Instead of presenting vague theories, it offers clear, actionable techniques that readers can apply immediately. Real-world examples help illustrate how these strategies work in different scenarios, ensuring that readers see their practical relevance. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or professional, this book provides a smart, structured, and effective approach to tackling life’s toughest challenges—one step at a time!
Profile Image for Lindsay DeRollo.
Author 22 books28 followers
November 28, 2024
Informative

An essential guide to learning how to solve problems through a practical 7-step process as discussed by the author. In this book you will learn how to define and identify the problem, break it down into smaller steps, and create an effective work plan in both your career and other areas of your life. The author explains his own journey and how he discovered and mastered these 7 steps to create a successful, confident, and fulfilling life. Filled with real-world examples and lots of encouragement and guidance, I recommend this book to all looking for how to problem-solve effectively and tackle difficult situations.
Profile Image for Kranna.
340 reviews3 followers
November 25, 2024
Step by step guide

Everyone can use this book for problem solving and critical thinking. Using data analysis and critical thinking to make your decisions can be one of the most rewarding feelings. In this is a step-by-step guide you can do that just that use your critical thinking skills to solve problems.
Profile Image for Bridget Ball.
410 reviews17 followers
November 25, 2024
Everyone should have a copy in their office or home

This is a great book to help solve more complex problems. The directions are simple and help you think clearly and concisely. There are lots of tips and tricks in here that can benefit anyone. It also helps you make smarter decisions for long lasting results.
Profile Image for steffi Seitz.
218 reviews10 followers
November 27, 2024
Help for solving problems

The book is organized in a logical progression. Each chapter focuses on a specific step of the process, providing detailed explanations and examples. You will be guided through each phase, from identifying the problem to executing solutions.

This book is easy to understand and give you the skills you need to problem solve effectively.
335 reviews2 followers
June 13, 2025
common sense guide

This is a good book putting together a problem solving framework that is pretty well known. Author at times as repetitive and the real world examples are very brief and simple. It would have been better if author had picked one example and drilled down to explore the framework.
13 reviews
June 19, 2025
A very inspiring book to plan the solution of problems

Easy to read. Ver good advise on how to deal with problems, big and small. It organizes well known principles in an organized way, and suddenly you find an easy and logical way to deal with prolems ou encounter both at work and in your home .
Profile Image for Brandy.
142 reviews
November 22, 2024
Book Review

I loved reading and relearning about the rice method. I remember learning this method growing up, but for the life of me, I can't remember where exactly. I would recommend anyone to read this book, especially if you have problem solving issues.
487 reviews1 follower
November 24, 2024
So good!

This book was amazing for someone who wants to feel more confident. I learned many strategies to become more direct in my decision making skills. I feel prepared for difficult situations now!
935 reviews5 followers
December 1, 2024
useful problem solving

I really like the strategic problem solving tips in this book it gives you the ability to learn better ways to problem solve and we all could use that ability. There’s 7 easy steps in this book to problem solving that I found very useful.
1 review
October 1, 2025
Very informative!!!

This book captures the essence of cooperate work while providing problem solving strategies that are proven and backed by case studies. If you're feeling stuck and ready for a start, this book is the perfect pick for you.
Profile Image for Cara Bramlett.
Author 6 books5 followers
January 3, 2025
perfect for business leaders

This book provides a step by step systematic process to support business related problems. I specifically liked the problem solving mindset!
Profile Image for Karn Moonsri.
84 reviews
April 21, 2025
Strategic Problem Solving เป็นหนังสือที่ควรค่าแก่การอ่านสำหรับผู้ที่ต้องการพัฒนาทักษะการแก้ปัญหาอย่างเป็นระบบและมีประสิทธิภาพครับ ด้วยกรอบการทำงาน 7 ขั้นตอนที่ชัดเจน ผสมผสานเครื่องมือจริงและตัวอย่างจากสถานการณ์จริง หนังสือเล่มนี้ช่วยให้ผู้อ่านสามารถวิเคราะห์ปัญหายากๆ และเผชิญกับความท้าทายได้อย่างมั่นใจและเป็นระบบครับ
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.