Your team is facing a major problem. How can you delegate to improve your problem-solving skills?

2 Break down the solution

The next step is to break down the solution into smaller and manageable tasks. You need to identify the actions, resources, and tools required to implement the solution, and estimate the time, cost, and risk involved. You also need to prioritize the tasks according to their importance, dependency, and sequence. To delegate this step, you can divide the tasks among your team members, based on their skills, availability, or preference. You can also ask them to plan and schedule their tasks, and propose any changes or improvements to the solution.

3 Communicate the expectations

The third step is to communicate the expectations and guidelines to your team members. You need to explain the purpose, scope, and outcome of the problem-solving process, and how it aligns with the organizational goals and values. You also need to clarify the roles, responsibilities, and authority of each team member, and how they will coordinate and collaborate with each other. To delegate this step, you can use different communication channels and methods, such as meetings, emails, or chats, to convey the information and instructions. You can also ask them to confirm their understanding and commitment, and provide any feedback or questions.

4 Monitor the progress

The fourth step is to monitor the progress and performance of your team members. You need to track the status, results, and issues of each task, and measure the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of the solution. You also need to provide support, guidance, and feedback to your team members, and help them overcome any challenges or difficulties. To delegate this step, you can use different tools and systems, such as dashboards, reports, or checklists, to collect and evaluate the data and evidence. You can also ask them to update you regularly and report any problems or concerns.

5 Review the outcome

The final step is to review the outcome and impact of the problem-solving process. You need to compare the actual results with the expected goals and standards, and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the solution. You also need to recognize, appreciate, and reward the efforts and achievements of your team members, and celebrate the success and learning. To delegate this step, you can involve your team members in the evaluation and reflection process, and ask them to share their feedback, opinions, and suggestions. You can also ask them to document and communicate the lessons learned and best practices.

6 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?