What cognitive elements are necessary for effective problem-solving that go beyond merely fixing issues when they break?

Answer

Analytical thinking to anticipate potential roadblocks and develop proactive strategies

The skill termed 'problem-solving' is described as being much more comprehensive than simple reactive maintenance or repair ('fixing things when they break'). True problem-solving requires a forward-looking, analytical approach. This involves the essential cognitive process of anticipating challenges or potential roadblocks before they manifest and subsequently developing proactive strategies to mitigate them. Furthermore, successful execution of this skill involves the ability to dissect large, potentially ambiguous problems into smaller, manageable segments, evaluate various possible approaches systematically, and then commit to and implement a course of action that is reasoned and justified by the prior analysis.

What cognitive elements are necessary for effective problem-solving that go beyond merely fixing issues when they break?
jobcareerrequirementskillemployer