Tackling complex problems requires a combination of cognitive skills, problem-solving strategies, and a mindset that is open to learning and adaptation. By adopting these methodologies, we can increase our effectiveness in solving the most complex challenges in today's world.

In today's world, we are faced with increasingly complex challenges that require an approach beyond conventional solutions. Complex problem solving (CPS) is a field that explores how people approach situations with multiple interrelated factors. Here are some key methodologies for navigating complexity:

Deep Understanding of the Problem: Before looking for solutions, it is crucial to invest time in understanding the nature of the problem. This involves analyzing the initial information and that discovered during exploration, as well as identifying causal relationships between the elements of the problem. Ask yourself: What are the key variables? How do they interact with each other? This stage of knowledge acquisition is critical.

Representation and Formulation: Once you understand the problem, the next step is to represent it in an organized way. This may include creating diagrams, models, or concept maps that help you visualize the problem in its entirety and identify the most appropriate strategies for addressing it.

Focus on Knowledge Acquisition and Application: Solving complex problems involves both acquiring knowledge about the problem and applying that knowledge to find solutions. This means that you must be willing to learn and adapt your approach as you go.

Exploration and Control Strategies: Appropriate strategies for exploration are important. For example, the “vary one thing at a time” (VOTAT) strategy is useful for identifying causal relationships in linear systems. In more complex systems, a combination of strategies and a holistic view is required. The ability to control the system, whether a process or a situation, involves using feedback to persist or change behavior.

Multiple Systems and Comparison: To assess CPS skills, multiple complex systems (MCS) are used that allow a person's performance on different problems to be compared and the reliability of measurements to be assessed. These systems can be modeled using formal frameworks such as linear structural equations (LSE) or finite state automata (FSA).

Metacognition: Reflecting on your own problem-solving process is crucial. Metacognition involves knowing your own strategies, knowing when and why to use them, and regulating your learning. Monitoring your progress, evaluating the results of your actions, and adjusting your plans are key elements for effective problem solving.

Collaboration: Many complex problems require team collaboration. In this sense, collaborative problem solving (ColPS) involves establishing a shared understanding, taking appropriate actions, and maintaining team organization. Effective teamwork, communication, and the use of computational agents can enhance problem solving.

Learning from Mistakes: Mistakes are an inevitable part of the complex problem-solving process. Instead of avoiding them, we should view them as learning opportunities. Analyzing why we failed and what we can do differently next time is essential to improving our CPS skills.