Your team is stuck on a project. What do you do to get everyone back on track?

1 Identify the root cause

The first step to resolving any problem is to understand what is causing it. Is your team stuck because of a lack of resources, information, or feedback? Is there a conflict of interest, opinion, or style among team members or clients? Is there a communication gap, a misunderstanding, or a lack of trust? By asking these questions, you can pinpoint the source of the issue and address it accordingly.

2 Listen and empathize

The next step is to listen to your team members and empathize with their perspectives. Everyone has their own ideas, preferences, and expectations when it comes to design, and sometimes they may clash with others. Instead of dismissing or criticizing them, try to understand where they are coming from and what they are trying to achieve. Acknowledge their feelings, concerns, and contributions, and show respect and appreciation for their work.

3 Brainstorm and compromise

The third step is to brainstorm and compromise with your team members and clients. Once you have identified and listened to the problem, you can start looking for solutions that satisfy everyone's needs and goals. You can use various techniques, such as mind mapping, sketching, or mood boards, to generate and visualize different ideas and options. You can also invite feedback, suggestions, and input from others, and be open to making changes and adjustments. The key is to find a balance between creativity and functionality, and between individuality and teamwork.

4 Delegate and follow up

The final step is to delegate and follow up with your team members and clients. After you have agreed on a solution, you need to assign tasks and responsibilities to each team member, and make sure they have the resources and support they need to complete them. You also need to communicate clearly and regularly with your team and your clients, and update them on the progress and status of the project. You can use tools, such as project management software, calendars, or checklists, to keep track of deadlines, milestones, and deliverables. You also need to monitor the quality and consistency of the work, and provide feedback and recognition along the way.

Working on a commercial interior design project can be a rewarding experience, but it can also present some challenges. By following these steps, you can overcome any obstacles, manage any conflicts, and foster any collaborations that may arise in your team, and deliver a successful project that meets your clients' expectations and your own standards.

5 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?