What do you do if your Facility Management (FM) team is facing a complex problem?

1 Assess Situation

Before diving into problem-solving, take a moment to thoroughly assess the situation. Gather all relevant information about the issue at hand. This may involve inspecting the site, reviewing maintenance logs, or consulting with your team. Understanding the scope and impact of the problem will help you prioritize actions and allocate resources more effectively. It's crucial to remain calm and methodical during this stage to ensure that all factors are considered before moving forward.

2 Identify Resources

Once you've assessed the situation, identify the resources available to tackle the problem. This includes personnel with the necessary expertise, financial resources, tools, and time. Sometimes, the solution may require additional training for your team or outsourcing to specialists. It's important to have a clear understanding of your team's capabilities and limitations to develop a realistic plan of action that leverages your strengths and addresses weaknesses.

3 Brainstorm Solutions

After identifying resources, brainstorm possible solutions with your team. Encourage open communication and creative thinking, as diverse perspectives can lead to innovative problem-solving strategies. It's important to consider both short-term fixes and long-term improvements during this stage. Document all suggestions, regardless of their feasibility, as they could be the stepping stones to a viable solution or inspire other ideas.

4 Evaluate Options

With a list of potential solutions in hand, evaluate each one based on criteria such as cost, time, impact, and sustainability. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider any potential risks or unintended consequences. This evaluation will help you narrow down the list to the most practical and effective solutions. Remember, the goal is to address the problem comprehensively, not just apply a quick fix.

5 Implement Plan

Choose the best solution from your evaluation and develop an implementation plan. This plan should outline the steps needed to resolve the problem, designate responsibilities, and set timelines. Communication is key during this phase; ensure that everyone involved understands their role and the expected outcomes. Monitor the implementation closely to address any issues promptly and adjust the plan if necessary.