Includes bibliographical references and index.

The dna of problems and problem solvers -- 4 basic tools of problem solving -- A structured approach to problem solving -- Define, describe and appraise the problem -- Investigate, organize and analyze the data -- Formulate and test a causal theory -- Choose the most probable cause -- Develop, test and implement solutions -- Implement, document, and celebrate -- Failing at problem solving -- A message for leadership -- A structured approach to problem prevention -- Defining high risk areas -- Defining problems, failure modes and effects -- Identifying the highest total risk problem -- Defining the most probable cause -- Developing a preventive measures plan -- Implement the preventive measures plan -- The case of the engineering backlog -- The case of the defective pinions -- The case of the cracking rails -- The case of the weld spatter -- A case study in problem prevention -- Decisions, decisions, decisions -- A case study in decision making -- Needs assessment.