When something is not working what should you do?

When something is not working what should you do?

Some of us are trying very hard to deliver what is required from us; we dedicate hours of our day working hard and hard aiming to be able to deliver it.

But, despite of the time and effort we do not reach the expected goal!

So what is wrong?

There is a saying – “ doing more of the same, doesn’t solve an existing problem. It just keeps us busy! “

Individuals and companies have many ways to deal with goals not achieved, problems that are not resolved.

Some deny the issue and hide themselves in “bureaucracy- processes that do not add value”. (carlos wanderley 2016) Some keep researching, testing, looking for absolute clarity and certainty! And some decide to face the challenge, change the way to do things.

Well we are living in a new world, and until you start to understand it, you will not stand a chance to deliver a goal or solve a problem. And is not only you, as I said before, many big companies “have not smelt the coffee”, and if did are too afraid to really try it.

Many companies create an appendix called “development, innovation department”, to deal with goals not achieved, trends and or unsolved problems.

In a world where the barriers of entry in most businesses have been either destroyed or reduced substantially, you cannot have the luxury to have just a fraction of the company in an innovation mood. Or be searching forever for “the solution”.

Some believe that the solution is on data, and acquire massive data capability – the big data trap – and invest too much time on endless customer insights and seek for the 100% certainty/conclusion and do not act. Yes from a technology aspect we can treat lots of data, but some individuals and companies become paralyzed.

We are in a world where speed is fundamental and action to deliver the needed speed, to deliver that we need;

Capacity to face and take risks, Run tests fast – seeking guidance not answers, Ability to improve in the run, Usage routinely champion and challenger practices, Scale Fast, Partnerships must be part of day to day.

A world that asks for a new approach regarding Merger and Acquisitions! Where the next competitor can come from a garage!

So how all the above change the way we should work?

Well, we should try to understand the new dynamic, That there are options out there, do not need to re-create what was already created. That we should always be looking to answer our customer (internal or external) problems, issues, needs. That the customers do not necessary knows the solution and we are paid to provide it as fast as possible and the best way possible – convenience cost and certainty. That we must have a sense of ownership of our business, it should not be seen as just a task, a work.

If we have subordinates, we should listen to them, work with them, lead from the front, energize them, and be fair and brave on decisions. Strive for meritocracy.

Do not look for the short way, short term results, they will always require re-work. But always understanding that speed is essential to do the needful.

If we do not understand that we need a different kind of thinking, companies need a different kind of people, neither we, nor companies will deliver the goal, or solve the problems, we and the companies will fail!