Universal Systems Model(U.S.M.)A problem solving method and project proposal

Please follow along and take notes in your notebook!Note taking will be prompted with green lettering and bongo drums Definitely take notes on topics in light green!

Introduction• Delta High Technology classes require you to be

problem solvers!• The following slides will present• Why USM?• USM Flowchart• Input description• Process description• Output description• Feedback description• Conclusion

"Genius is one per cent inspiration and ninety-nine per cent perspiration. Accordingly, a  'genius' is often merely a talented person who has done all of his or her homework."   Thomas Edison

“I never did anything worth doing entirely by accident.... Almost none of my inventions were derived in that manner. They were achieved by having trained myself to be analytical and to endure and

tolerate hard work.” Thomas Edison

Bing Images. (2011). Thomas Edison. Retrieved from http://redes.moderna.com.br/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Thomas-Edison.jpg

Why USM?• Provides a systematic approach to solving a

problem or project completion• So you can plan ahead in your solution process• So you don’t continually try the same solution

• Provides a systematic way to record your results• For your own reference/benefit• To share with others

• So they don’t try the same things• So they can improve from where you left off

Bing Images. (2012). Problem Solving. Retrieved from http://www.andrewhuffer.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/problem_solving4.jpg

USM Process

What was the result of the solution you applied this time?

Describe the problem

How are you going to solve the problem? (A list)

Which solution are you applying?

If you have not found a solution go back through Process!

• Define the problem/proposal in your own words• Problem: “My car won’t start”• Proposal: “I will construct a time machine!”

• The inputs for various problems/proposals – could be…• Information- to solve a problem, or construct a project

• Perhaps: research, data, plans, or blueprints

• Materials- physical resources to aid in solution• Perhaps: lumber, concrete, paper, or space

• Tools- the devices and machines that aid you• Perhaps: wrenches, bulldozers, pencils, or markers

• People- human resources needed• Perhaps: carpenters, iron workers, laborers, or researchers

• Capital- Financial backing of the project• Perhaps: cash, land trade, stock or bond sales

• Time- the interval/”How long?” • Perhaps: minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, or years

• Energy- the force that drives a project• Perhaps: commercials, slogans, mission statements, or philosophies

Input

Bing Images. (2012).Plug and Outlet. Retrieved from http://static5.depositphotos.com/1005979/444/i/950/depositphotos_4440145-Person-Lifting-Power-Plug-to-Electrical-Outlet.jpg

Process• Where you begin to take action• List possible solutions to problem• “Charge the battery”• “Change the fuse”• “No gas in the tank”

• List materials necessary for first proposed solution• Battery charger

• Explain steps to be taken• Hook up the charger to battery overnight

Bing Images. (2012). Process. Retrived from http://www.jcpe.ie/resources/webquests/TheHumanBodyLTDOct/Images/process.jpg

• Apply your possible solution to the problem!• Take the charger and go do what you said!

• What was the result?• Was it “yes”?• Was it “no”?

OutputBing Images. (2010). Output. Retrieved from http://www.exhibitsalive.com/modules/_images/IPOBLK.JPG

Bing Images. (2009). Output Device. Retrieved from http://www.zevendesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/output-device.jpg

Feedback• Did the solution work?• Yes! The car started!

• Note what was done• Note how it worked• Decide if you would change/improve the process

• No! • Go back to the process stage and apply the next

possible solution (Change the fuse?)• Provide any observations you had• Battery terminals were corroded. Maybe it didn’t get a good

charge?

Bing Images. (2011). Feedback). Retrieved from http://reflectionspn.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/feedback.jpg

Conclusion

• You probably already have an informal system to solve a problem• As you get older and have greater

responsibilities you will need a more formal system to solve problems or make a project proposal• The USM is not the only method, but is very

similar to others and will provide you with good practice for your future!“Opportunity is missed by most

people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” Thomas Edison