Problem solving
Identifying, analysing, and resolving role-specific challenges.
This is a prototype for SFIA 9. It is subject to change before publication.
Guidance notes
Problem solving in a professional context involves the ability to recognize issues, understand their intricacies, analyse potential solutions, and implement effective resolutions. It's a critical skill across all levels of work, with complexity and independence increasing with seniority.
Level 1 - Follow
- Works towards understanding the issue and seeks assistance in resolving unexpected problems.
Level 2 - Assist
- Investigates and resolves routine issues.
Level 3 - Apply
- Applies a methodical approach to investigate and evaluate options to resolve routine and moderately complex issues.
Level 4 - Enable
- Investigates the cause and impact, evaluates options and resolves a broad range of complex issues.
Level 5 - Ensure, advise
- Investigates complex issues to identify the root causes and impacts, assesses a range of solutions, and makes informed decisions on the best course of action; often in collaboration with other experts.
Level 6 - Initiate, influence
- Anticipates and leads in addressing problems and opportunities that may impact organisational objectives, establishing a strategic approach and allocating resources.
Level 7 - Set strategy, inspire, mobilise
- Manages inter-relationships between impacted parties and strategic imperatives, recognising the broader business context and drawing accurate conclusions when resolving problems.