An informal discussion will take place where notes of all relevant issues are made. Then, if required, the area of the issue will be visited and the problem observed.
These steps are essential in defining what the exact problem is. Once this is complete then a problem solving process will begin.
The term problem solving is used in many disciplines, sometimes with different perspectives, and often with different terminologies.
Problems can also be classified into two different types (ill-defined and well-defined) from which appropriate solutions are to be made.
Ill-defined problems are those that do not have clear goals, solution paths, or expected solution.
Well-defined problems have specific goals, clearly defined solution paths, and clear expected solutions. These problems also allow for more initial planning than ill-defined problems.
Being able to solve problems sometimes involves dealing with pragmatics (logic) and semantics (interpretation of the problem). The ability to understand what the goal of the problem is and what rules could be applied represent the key to solving the problem. Sometimes the problem requires some abstract thinking and coming up with a creative solution.