Using eight trigrams (BaGua) approach with epistemological practice to vitalize problem-solving processes: A confirmatory analysis of R&D managers

Eight trigrams (BaGua) is a philosophy that has played an essential role in Chinese life. The purpose of the present study is to extend the theory to organizational problem-solving, so that individuals can engage in creative problem solving and justification to discover the most effective approaches. Questionnaires were returned by 259 research and development managers, and were analyzed using the SEM statistical method. The results indicate that the interaction among each trigram in the model of BaGua was significantly correlated. Most of the hypotheses were supported. The more an individual interacted with others, with data and with devices, the higher the problem sensitivity and evaluation performance. Despite the finding that the Tui trigram was not significantly related to the Ken trigram, all other trigram elements significantly affected each other. This finding is discussed in terms of the confirmatory situation and the conceptualization of epistemology in problem-solving.