8D problem solving is a structured and effective method for finding and eliminating the root causes of complex issues. However, it requires the involvement and commitment of a cross-functional team, which can be challenging to achieve. How do you get buy-in from your team for 8D problem solving? Here are some tips to help you overcome resistance and foster collaboration.
Before you start the 8D process, make sure your team understands why it is important and how it can help them solve the problem. Explain the goals, scope, and expected outcomes of the 8D project, and how it aligns with the organization's vision and values. Highlight the benefits of using 8D, such as reducing waste, improving quality, enhancing customer satisfaction, and increasing efficiency. Show them some examples of successful 8D projects and the positive impact they had.
Reduced customer problems due to fast response Better understanding of true root cause(s) Permanent solutions by elimination of the root cause Improved quality control systems and control plans Improved systems to support product development, manufacturing and service Increased customer satisfaction and confidence in capabilities Root causes and results can be shared for future FMEAs and problem prevention Supply chain response consistency using a proven method Management reviews of progress following the logic of 8D Reuse of 8Ds on similar problems (Global 8D)
In my experience, explaining the problem in a final customer point of view helps to better understand what we want to solve. In a way, using empathy to get the team working.
One of the key principles of 8D is to involve the right people at the right time. Don't wait until you have defined the problem or generated solutions to invite your team members to join the 8D process. Instead, involve them from the beginning, and solicit their input and feedback throughout the process. This way, you can leverage their expertise, insights, and perspectives, and make them feel valued and respected. By involving them early, you can also avoid surprises, conflicts, and misunderstandings later on.
By involving the team early in the 8D problem-solving process, team members can provide their perspectives on the problem. This can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the problem, including its symptoms.
A cross functional team has to be put together since the initial notification of an issue. It’s important to kick off the investigation with all parties involved in order to cover all the perspectives.
Communication is essential for any team project, but especially for 8D problem solving. You need to communicate clearly and frequently with your team members, as well as with other stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, managers, and regulators. Use different channels and formats, such as meetings, emails, reports, presentations, and dashboards, to share information and updates. Make sure everyone is on the same page about the problem definition, the root causes, the action plan, the roles and responsibilities, the deadlines, and the metrics. Encourage questions, feedback, and suggestions, and address any concerns or issues promptly.
Effective communication is necessary to gather accurate and relevant information about the problem. This includes listening carefully to the problem description, collecting data from different sources, and documenting the information in a clear and concise manner.
Accountability is key. All action plants should include responsible person, department and due date and, if not achieved, a recovery plan.
Another way to get buy-in from your team for 8D problem solving is to empower them to act on their ideas and solutions. Give them the authority, resources, and support they need to implement the action plan and verify the results. Recognize their efforts and achievements, and celebrate their successes. Encourage them to learn from their mistakes and failures, and to share their lessons and best practices. By empowering them to act, you can boost their confidence, motivation, and ownership of the 8D process.
The final step of 8D problem solving is to review and improve the process and the outcomes. This is an opportunity to get feedback from your team and other stakeholders, and to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the 8D method. Ask your team what worked well and what didn't, what they liked and disliked, what they learned and what they would do differently. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the 8D process, and the gaps and opportunities for improvement. Use this feedback to refine and optimize your 8D approach for future projects.