This time we're talking about problem solving, the guiding star of human skills.

We are not exaggerating. This ability deeply rooted in us goes far beyond the literal meaning of the name. It is a sort of built-in compass that knows no disciplinary boundaries and allows us to face any daily challenge. Be it personal, social, existential or professional.

Even more, it is the engine of all progress, adaptation, and evolution. It underscores the uniquely human inclination to overcome obstacles and transform challenges into opportunities. It is a kind of script in our DNA, which has guided Homo sapiens through the ages, from the struggle for survival in the primitive African savannahs to the construction of today's societies. Throughout history, the ability to solve problems has taken on increasingly complex and sophisticated forms, directly reflecting and influencing social and economic progress. Pushing humanity towards new horizons of knowledge and understanding, thriving in a myriad of environments and circumstances.

And today, when we are exposed to exponentially rapid, significant and frequent changes, we need it as much as GPS to reach any new destination. And in fact, beyond specific technical skills, companies are looking for talents capable not only of addressing current issues with effective solutions but also of anticipating future problems with a proactive and innovative approach. In this perspective, problem solving offers an indicator of their potential ability to contribute to the achievement of results. It goes without saying why this skill is now a key criterion in the selection and advanced training of personnel. Especially in those contexts in which the competitive advantage depends on continuous innovation and adaptability.

But problem solving transcends the mere application of methodologies and techniques. It’s like a Swiss Army knife that has creativity, critical thinking, empathy, communication and collaboration instead of tools. We use creativity to see beyond conventional solutions. We use critical thinking to evaluate every aspect of a problem. We apply empathy to deeply understand the needs and perspectives of all parties involved. We use communication to share ideas, expose problems and articulate solutions clearly and persuasively. Finally, we value collaboration as a means to bring together diverse perspectives, skills and experiences. This allows us to devise sustainable, ethical and inclusive solutions that transform crises into opportunities.

Problem solving is essential in every field. In the technology sector, it is necessary to keep up with a rapidly evolving market. In the healthcare sector, it takes on a critical dimension, with direct impacts on people's lives. In the manufacturing industry, it is essential to improve production processes, reduce costs and ensure safety at work. Business consultants use it to analyze their clients' business challenges and devise growth strategies. Even in the sphere of education, it is used to develop and implement innovative teaching methodologies that respond to the learning needs of students, effectively preparing them for future professional challenges.

For Saint Thomas lovers of scientific papers, there are numerous studies that confirm how problem solving is an indispensable strategic lever for business success. An interesting point of view, for example, is offered by the results of a research entitled “The Vital Role of Problem-Solving Competence in New Product Success” (Atuahene-Gima & Wei, 2011). Getting to the point, to obtain better performance from new products or services, generating and possessing large quantities of information on the market is not enough. To translate knowledge into a competitive advantage, the ability to solve problems quickly, sustainably and creatively by team members is needed.

The fact that problem solving has, in recent years, polarized the attention of scholars, managers and human resources professionals reflects a cultural change that values proactivity. In short, it means that we are moving from a problem-solving approach model dependent on “prepackaged” solutions to an “express” one, more participatory and collaborative. This is why more and more companies are choosing to invest in resources that allow them to identify, evaluate and enhance this soft skill.

In this scenario, the gamification tools proposed by Artémat are positioned as innovative and valuable resources for assessment and training. The playful approach transforms theoretical tests and exercises into engaging practical experiences. Among our flagship products, the Business Game and the Web InBasket stand out, platforms designed to simulate complex business dynamics, which offer HR the opportunity to observe candidates in action, evaluating not only their ability to solve problems but also how they manage pressure, collaborate and communicate within a team.

From an educational perspective, gamification makes learning more stimulating and helps consolidate fundamental transversal skills such as teamwork, critical thinking and managing emotions under stress. The effectiveness of this approach is confirmed by all our clients, who testify to significant improvements in employees' ability to address and solve complex problems, with a consequent increase in operational efficiency and job satisfaction. Said as managers like it, greater innovation, reduced response times to market challenges and sustainable competitive advantage.

In conclusion, we live in an era in which professional challenges follow one another at a speed comparable to that of Arturo Brachetti's costume changes and solutions become obsolete in the blink of an eye. In this dynamic scenario, the ability to quickly address and resolve complex problems is the "must have" of human skills. And Artémat presents itself as the strategic ally that offers companies tools to highlight the crucial skills of candidates and employees and to start training courses during which they can refine them. An essential investment for every company that wants to increase its human capital and follow the flow of innovation without getting lost along the way.