PREFACE

The book originated as a summary of the lectures for the course “Methods of Systems Engineering” at the School of Engineering and Management, University of Nova Gorica. In this course, we aim to introduce students to a modern approach to comprehensive problem-solving. Although there is a vast and diverse range of literature available in this field, we have condensed the material into a concise format with practical applicability. Students often encounter extensive theories which, while useful, are quite unattractive and difficult to connect with practical problems during the early stages of general studies. This lack of practical examples, which clearly and interactively demonstrate the use of methodological tools, guided us in preparing this e-book. At the same time, we want to encourage students to think systematically about how to approach problem-solving and challenges, and how to transition from an idea to its implementation. Based on our experience, this is also an area where young graduates often find themselves at a dead end when they enter the working environment.

In a modern environment filled with technology, complex sociological processes, fluctuating human resource flows, market adaptation, and more, problem-solving becomes increasingly complicated due to various causes. Therefore, it is beneficial to determine the actual state of a system by defining its function in connection with its individual components and the environment. With better knowledge of the system, including its properties, we can break down and address the resulting problem more comprehensively. This prevents a simple and unilateral solution, which is often proposed, from only partially solving the problem or even causing a new one with long-term consequences. Greater efficiency and success in solving and eliminating problems can only be achieved with systematic approaches. This can be ensured through the use of a comprehensive methodology for problem-solving and system building, known as systems engineering. It provides guidelines on how to proceed when we are not satisfied with the current state.

The book interweaves problem-solving techniques with continuous improvement methods, such as TQM, Lean, Six Sigma, 20 Keys, and others. The chapters are structured to first introduce the reader to the concept of a problem and then guide them from problem identification to solution. During this process, they learn about methods for formulating and analysing problems, selecting strategies, and finding the most suitable team composition for solving the problem. The simplex method, which leads to a solution or action in eight steps, serves as the basis for presenting systematic problem-solving. This requires a well-defined problem, which can only be ensured by proper data collection and information formation. Once the problem is defined, the reader learns techniques for generating ideas for solutions and tools for selecting and evaluating available ideas. Only then do we proceed together to planning and selling the idea, followed by action.

A systematic approach to problem-solving leads to continuous improvements in processes, operations, and relationships, resulting in business success, better product quality, more satisfied employees and customers, environmental benefits, and overall efficiency. This is also echoed in the Japanese production philosophy that originated from the successful automobile manufacturer Toyota and influenced the development of the European business excellence model.

In preparing this book, we focused primarily on the practical applicability of the techniques and methods for problem-solving. We hope that young graduates will continue to refer to it after their studies, when they encounter problems in practice. We wish them success and hope this book will be of help.