We’ve seen more than our share of problem solving meetings. We’ve been the team member, leader, and facilitator. We’ve seen the team that can’t make a decision or can’t get their arms around the issue. See if these scenarios sound familiar to you:
– “There’s not enough data,” “The data isn’t accurate,” or “There’s so much data, we don’t know what to do with it.”
– Unsubstantiated arguments about the true root cause(s) of the problem
– Heated debates and fears about the solution – “But if we do this, then that (something bad) will happen.”
– Disagreements on implementation methods
– No one is able to tie these elements together to agree on resolution.
– The pressure mounts as someone keeps emphasizing the cost of the problem in time and money.
– The boss keeps saying, “Just solve it!”
Often, the outcome is to do nothing – a discussion that stalls and a problem that festers. Or sometimes under pressure, the team takes some token action – often the wrong action. This can make the problem worse and over time, create a frustrated staff and culture. Then it all resurfaces months or years later.
What’s missing? For more complicated problems, you may need:
– A problem solving process
– Use of specific tools and techniques
– Training
– A facilitator and/or mentor
A methodical, problem solving process with tools creates “one version of the truth” and solves nagging problems once and for all. For example, a project charter clarifies the scope, resources, goals, and payback. A data collection plan – however formal or informal – helps prevent analysis paralysis. Simple process analysis can isolate root causes. Decision making templates help identify risks, remove emotions, and create solutions that stick. Your data, causes, and solutions should all tell one cohesive story. And that story makes it easier to convince the boss you have the right answer.
Training can help your staff learn to solve problems on their own. This could be conducted in the classroom or “just in time” as you’re working on a live project. Hiring an outside mentor is another approach. The subject matter expertise of the team, with the process and tools experience of the facilitator can be a winning combination.
“The measure of success is not whether you have a tough problem to deal with, but whether it’s the same problem you had last year.” John Foster Dulles
So, how much did you say your issue was costing you? How could your business grow faster with this problem out of the way?
Edward Livesay
