You're faced with conflicting opinions on a new research project. How can you steer it towards success?

Example: During the development of a new drug, the R&D team at a pharmaceutical company encounters differing opinions on the best delivery method. Some team members advocate for an oral tablet due to patient compliance, while others prefer an injectable form for faster absorption. The project leader encourages an open debate, allowing each side to present their arguments. This healthy discussion leads to the new idea of developing a dual-release oral tablet that provides both immediate and sustained drug release, combining the benefits of both approaches.

Although we feel happy when there are no conflicts sometimes they are beneficial for a project, we find new ideas, reduce cost, deliver fast, avoid future problems hence we must encourage people to speak up, I encourage team members to open up when they have a doubt or question in their minds.

we must understand what is the challenge (conflict), gather supporting data why the problem has surfaced up to find a suitable resolution that is inline with scope , budget & quality of the project. A point without supporting data may not stand strong.

Example: The team is divided on whether to use a synthetic or natural compound as the active ingredient in a new medication. To resolve this, they gather evidence by conducting parallel studies on both compounds. They perform experiments to compare the efficacy, safety, and stability of each option. The data collected reveals that the synthetic compound gives superior stability and bioavailability. This evidence-based approach helps the team make a well-informed decision that is supported by concrete data, minimizing the impact of personal biases.

A project has a defined start date and completion date hence every task / challenge must have a task manager, plan to start & plan to complete it. I have observed stake holders bring in new , new ideas that are never ending if we haven't agreed on the task and its completion date. Setting milestone is critical.

Example: In the development of a new antibiotic, the R&D team sets clear milestones to navigate conflicting opinions on the research direction. They establish specific goals for each phase of the project, such as completing initial compound screening, conducting preclinical trials, and achieving specific efficacy targets in animal models. These milestones give a structured framework for the project, allowing the team to objectively assess progress and make data-driven decisions at each checkpoint. This approach ensures that despite differing views, the project remains focused and on track.

A project cannot be delivered without collaboration. An idea cannot be transformed from R&D to commercial without collaboration. I have experienced delays in projects due to lack of collaboration between R&D head and operations (manufacturing plant) head, we had to bring in top management (Sponsor/owner) to take the project forward. I believe we must work on purpose over popularity. My favorite dialogue is "we must park ego at gate before entering into office"

Example: A pharmaceutical company is working on a complex project to develop a combination therapy for a chronic disease. The team consists of chemists, biologists, pharmacologists, and clinicians, each with their own perspectives. To develop collaboration, the project manager establishes regular interdisciplinary meetings where each expert can share their insights and suggestions. By creating an inclusive environment where all voices are heard, the team discovers a novel approach that integrates the strengths of each discipline, leading to the development of a more effective and comprehensive treatment regimen.

?? This is an interesting question! Here are 5 key things to consider: ?? ?? 1. First, let's gather everyone involved. Create a safe space for an open dialogue. ?? 2. Present both conflicting resolutions and dissect their strengths and weaknesses. Mutual respect is the key! ?? 3. Squeeze the best out of both approaches. Can we combine elements of each, creating a hybrid approach that addresses the project from multiple angles? ?? 4. Foresight is a powerful tool. Do a "pre-mortem prophecy." Imagine the project fails. What blind spots might each approach have? ?? 5. Check if the project can be divided into smaller phases, testing both resolutions on a limited scale. Celebrate if there is a synergy! Do these steps sound good? ??

Decision making is key, why people are not able to make decisions, I have usually experience it is either because of lack of expertise or lack of empowerment, only these two reasons. Problem solution, for lack of expertise train your team , upgrade them so that they make decisions, and for lack of empowerment.....believe, trust your team, stand by them during critical times so that they gain confidence and move on.

Identifying the root cause of a problem is crucial, and several methods can be employed for this purpose, such as root cause analysis techniques like the fishbone diagram. Implementing agile methodologies can also yield positive results. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons of each proposal and assess their impact on both the product and project progress.