Problem solving is a crucial skill for executive managers, especially in a fast-changing and competitive environment. However, relying on outdated or ineffective methods can limit your team's potential and performance. How can you ensure your team uses the most current problem solving methods? Here are some tips to help you.
The first step is to evaluate how your team currently approaches problem solving. What are the strengths and weaknesses of your methods? How do they align with your goals, values, and culture? How do they compare with the best practices in your industry or domain? You can use tools such as SWOT analysis, gap analysis, or benchmarking to assess your current methods and identify areas for improvement.
Através do exemplo e experiência no uso desses métodos. Encorajar a usar algo em que realmente acredito e seja eficaz para a equipe e para todos que est?o em contato.
The second step is to learn from other sources of problem solving methods. You can look for inspiration from your peers, competitors, customers, mentors, or experts. You can also explore different fields, disciplines, or perspectives that might offer new insights or approaches. You can use methods such as brainstorming, research, networking, or observation to learn from others and expand your knowledge base.
I have always found that problems are often linked to emotions. We always open meetings with a reference to tolerance and the willingness to adopt new perspectives. We also always use a moderator at every meeting.
The third step is to experiment with new problem solving methods that suit your team's needs and challenges. You can choose from a variety of methods, such as design thinking, agile, lean, six sigma, or TRIZ. You can also combine or adapt methods to create your own unique solutions. You can use methods such as prototyping, testing, feedback, or iteration to experiment with new methods and evaluate their effectiveness.
We have already tried the headstand technique several times in my company. It has already proved to be very efficient. It forces everyone involved to gain a new perspective. We all had a lot of fun and even had to laugh, even though it was actually a "problem-solving method"! Great
The fourth step is to train and coach your team on how to use the most current problem solving methods. You can provide your team with the necessary resources, tools, and guidance to learn and apply the methods. You can also create a supportive and collaborative environment where your team can share their ideas, experiences, and learnings. You can use methods such as workshops, mentoring, or peer review to train and coach your team and enhance their problem solving skills.
Last year, we introduced self-organization at our company. A change like this requires a lot of movement and constant coaching from managers. Above all, I have to keep helping my team to adopt new perspectives. With self-organization, teams solve their own problems.
The fifth step is to review and update your problem solving methods regularly. You can monitor and measure the results and impacts of your methods on your team's performance and outcomes. You can also solicit feedback and suggestions from your team, stakeholders, or customers on how to improve your methods. You can use methods such as surveys, interviews, or analytics to review and update your methods and ensure they remain relevant and effective.
Last year alone, 40% of our team had further training. This enables us to guarantee that we are always up to date in the area of project management. I always motivate my team to critically scrutinize our existing processes.
The sixth step is to celebrate and reward your team for using the most current problem solving methods. You can recognize and appreciate your team's efforts, achievements, and contributions to problem solving. You can also incentivize and motivate your team to continue using and improving their problem solving methods. You can use methods such as recognition, rewards, or gamification to celebrate and reward your team and foster a culture of problem solving excellence.
It's great to make the process fun, and one way to add to this is an "Oops, let's not do that again!" board. By documenting mishaps and identifying why they didn't work in your environment, you create a valuable resource that helps you proactively navigate potential pitfalls and streamline your processes. It's like having a secret weapon against repeating past mistakes. Plus, it's not just about avoiding disaster - it's about continuous improvement. When you catalog what went wrong, you can analyze root causes, brainstorm solutions, and implement preventive measures. It's a recipe for growth and success! So, jot down those missteps and turn them into valuable lessons. Remember, learning from the past is the best way to move forward.
It is essential to validate that the use of the problem solving techniques deliver the results that were expected. By this it is meant the problem solving techniques are 'fit for purpose '.
Problems often have a high priority for me because they are disruptive factors. This is the only way we can guarantee a smooth process. We have already solved a lot of problems quickly in recent years and have therefore been able to develop well.