How to Practice Blameless Problem Solving

Practice Blameless Problem Solving

Fix mistakes by focusing on solutions. Then identify lessons learned and use those lessons to improve our processes so we don’t make the same mistake again. Get smarter with every mistake. Without mistakes, there is no learning, no getting better.

Human nature is to defend ourselves when a problem occurs or point out all the reasons why it isn’t our fault. Identifying the root cause helps to not just helps to solve the problem but create a system of dealing with that issue that prevents it from escalating again in the future. 

If you are the one that caused the issue, own up to the mistake and make sure that you work towards a solution. Most people find “someone” or “something” to blame when things go wrong. It takes a certain kind of maturity and professionalism to overcome that reflex and rise to a higher level of problem solving.

Many experts agree there are four fundamental steps to mature/professional problem solving, none of which involve blame and punishment: 

1. Identify the problem (shout out to GI JOE from the 80’s, knowing the problem is half the battle)
2. Come up with alternative solutions
3. Analyze which solution is best
4. Implement the chosen solution

This fundamental very much incorporates a few of our other fundamentals especially CHECK YOUR EGO AT THE DOOR!

Have a great weekend!

Dan from Indiana