Fictional detective Sherlock Holmes’ legendary problem solving skills can be applied to modern day business challenges, according to an analysis of the famous Sir Arthur Conan Doyle novels.
London’s finest private detective, who made his first appearance in print in 1887, was renowned for his skills in observation, logical reasoning, forensic science and deduction. He was able to solve even the most complex crimes that baffled others, including Scotland Yard.
Working from his rooms at 221B Baker Street, the legendary character has been played in films and on television by stars such as Robert Downey Jnr, Benedict Cumberbatch and Basil Rathbone. As every fan knows, whatever crime comes their way, Holmes and his sidekick, Dr John Watson, will solve it.
In fact, he’s the ultimate problem solver who has almost superhuman powers of observation, seeing what other people fail to notice and making remarkably accurate deductions from the information in front of him.
A prime example is when he first meets Dr Watson in the novel, A Study in Scarlet, and says to him, “I perceive you have been in Afghanistan,” before they have even had a conversation. Holmes studies Watson’s physical appearance and notices his suntanned face, injured arm and overall demeanour, deducing he has been in military service and endured hardship in a hot climate, presumably as an army doctor in Afghanistan.
What is a problem solving skill?
In a modern workplace, a person with problem solving skills can analyse the cause, brainstorm to evaluate potential solutions and implement a strategy to resolve issues. It relates to having the ability to think creatively and critically to find effective solutions to any challenges.
Businesses can learn from Sherlock Holmes’ methods by seeing problems differently and challenging the norm in order to resolve them. Paying attention to detail can uncover hidden risks or opportunities to help you make the right decision on the way forward.
Why problem solving is important
The workplace can seem hard to navigate with its various challenges. Employees need to be able to recognise and work through them, while making informed decisions, improving efficiency and fostering innovation. In any dynamic business environment, anything less may negatively impact the organisation.
Essentially, learning how to improve problem solving skills is crucial at work because it enables us to contribute to the continued success of the organisation.
Observing and discovering facts
Holmes uses his ability to see what others overlook, in the same way that attention to detail in business can uncover those hidden opportunities that may be significant. It’s all about analysing data, which is the key to Holmes’ approach to solving cases.
He is never biased in his judgement before he knows all about the facts of the case. One of his famous sayings is, “Insensibly, one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts.” This emphasises the importance of observing and analysing, rather than just seeing.
Holmes asks Watson how many steps there are to their Baker Street premises. Even though he climbs them many times a day, Watson has no idea, but Holmes knows there are 17, simply because he’s observed his surroundings.
Question everything
Holmes questions everything and leaves nothing to chance when solving a case, urging Watson to embrace curiosity. Renowned for his meticulous analysis of the information in hand; this theory transfers to the preferred approach to problem solving in the office, breaking down complex problems into smaller and more manageable parts, and examining each element thoroughly.
He thinks creatively, exploring cases from different angles and considering unorthodox solutions – something we call “thinking outside the box” in the modern office. He also seeks feedback by collaborating with Watson – it’s important to share findings and strategies with others, welcoming different perspectives.
Be persistent to find solutions
Holmes is never one to admit defeat and give up easily. Being persistent in the pursuit of solutions and delving deep into complex situations can often find the answers. Always remain curious and interested in ongoing self-improvement.
Businesses should challenge strategies and persist in finding solutions, no matter how difficult this may seem. Base decisions on data rather than gut feelings, just as Holmes follows his reasoning based on the evidence in front of him.
It’s not enough to simply find out why something is going wrong: be the person to find the solution, rather than just the answer to what’s happened. Problem solving is a journey of discovery. It’s not about reaching a destination, it’s about continuing on the journey and facing each new challenge as it arises, transforming it into an opportunity.
Why your environment matters
Thinking differently when approaching tasks to see if you can improve problem solving within the business is a skill you can hone over time. Your office environment matters because it needs to foster creativity and discussion to analyse the best way forward.
Working in serviced offices in London can help teams to effectively navigate challenges together by pooling their skills and using diverse perspectives to ultimately achieve a better outcome.
Sherlock Holmes also uses empathy in his approach where appropriate. For example, in The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle, he traps a would-be thief committing his first crime. However, rather than taking him to the police, he releases him with a stern caution, telling Watson if the man goes to jail, he’ll become a lifetime criminal.
The great detective always finds clues while investigating cases, but rather than plunging in feet first, he carefully analyses the situation and chooses the best course of action, based on his data collection, to come to the right conclusion.
This is something that translates very well to a business environment: just as Holmes sits and smokes his pipe until he hits upon the best answer, we should take time to think over the course of the day, so we may arrive at the best outcome.
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