How can you use team problem solving to improve an employee's performance?

1 Framing the problem

The first step in team problem solving is to frame the problem clearly and objectively. This means defining what the problem is, why it matters, who is affected by it, and what the desired outcome is. Framing the problem helps you and the team to understand the scope, impact, and urgency of the issue, as well as to avoid blaming, jumping to conclusions, or making assumptions. You can use questions such as: What is the specific performance gap or challenge? How does it affect the team's goals, customers, or stakeholders? What are the root causes or contributing factors? What are the criteria for a successful solution?

2 Generating solutions

The second step in team problem solving is to generate as many possible solutions as you can, without judging, criticizing, or filtering them. This is a creative and brainstorming phase, where you and the team can explore different perspectives, ideas, and alternatives. Generating solutions helps you and the team to expand your options, stimulate your thinking, and discover new opportunities. You can use techniques such as: asking open-ended questions, using mind maps, diagrams, or charts, applying the SCAMPER method (Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, Reverse), or using the 5 Whys technique to dig deeper into the causes and effects.

3 Evaluating and selecting solutions

The third step in team problem solving is to evaluate and select the best solutions from the ones you generated. This is a critical and analytical phase, where you and the team can weigh the pros and cons, compare the costs and benefits, and test the feasibility and effectiveness of each solution. Evaluating and selecting solutions helps you and the team to narrow down your choices, prioritize your actions, and agree on a common plan. You can use tools such as: using a decision matrix, applying the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound), conducting a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats), or using the PDCA cycle (Plan, Do, Check, Act) to experiment and learn.

4 Implementing and monitoring solutions

The fourth and final step in team problem solving is to implement and monitor the solutions you selected. This is a practical and operational phase, where you and the team can execute your plan, track your progress, measure your results, and make adjustments if needed. Implementing and monitoring solutions helps you and the team to achieve your desired outcome, evaluate your performance, and celebrate your success. You can use methods such as: assigning roles and responsibilities, setting deadlines and milestones, using key performance indicators (KPIs) or metrics, or conducting regular feedback sessions or reviews.

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?