How do you challenge and improve existing practices and policies?

1 Identify the problem

The first step to challenge and improve existing practices and policies is to identify the problem or gap that needs to be addressed. You can do this by asking questions such as: What is the current situation? What are the goals and objectives? What are the assumptions and limitations? What are the risks and benefits? What are the stakeholders and their interests? What are the best practices and standards? By asking these questions, you can clarify the scope, context, and criteria of the problem.

2 Research the evidence

The second step to challenge and improve existing practices and policies is to research the evidence that supports or contradicts them. You can do this by gathering information from reliable sources such as: academic journals, books, reports, data, case studies, experts, peers, customers, etc. You should also evaluate the quality, relevance, accuracy, and bias of the evidence, and compare and contrast different perspectives and arguments. By doing this, you can build your knowledge, understanding, and credibility on the topic.

3 Generate alternatives

The third step to challenge and improve existing practices and policies is to generate alternatives that could solve the problem or fill the gap. You can do this by using creative thinking techniques such as: brainstorming, mind mapping, SCAMPER, SWOT analysis, etc. You should also consider the feasibility, desirability, and viability of the alternatives, and how they align with the goals, objectives, and criteria of the problem. By doing this, you can expand your options, possibilities, and potential solutions.

4 Evaluate the outcomes

The fourth step to challenge and improve existing practices and policies is to evaluate the outcomes of the alternatives that you have generated. You can do this by using analytical thinking techniques such as: pros and cons, cost-benefit analysis, decision matrix, risk assessment, etc. You should also test, validate, and refine your alternatives, and seek feedback from stakeholders, experts, peers, customers, etc. By doing this, you can assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the alternatives, and select the best one.

5 Communicate the solution

The fifth step to challenge and improve existing practices and policies is to communicate the solution that you have selected to the relevant audience. You can do this by using effective communication skills such as: writing, speaking, presenting, listening, negotiating, persuading, etc. You should also tailor your message to the audience's needs, expectations, and preferences, and use clear, concise, and compelling language, visuals, and evidence. By doing this, you can convey your solution's value, benefits, and impact, and convince the audience to accept it.

6 Implement the change

The sixth and final step to challenge and improve existing practices and policies is to implement the change that you have communicated to the audience. You can do this by using project management skills such as: planning, organizing, leading, controlling, etc. You should also monitor, measure, and evaluate the change's progress, performance, and outcomes, and make adjustments as needed. By doing this, you can execute your solution, achieve your goals, and improve your practices and policies.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?