Effective business problem solving

Every day at work, each of us encounter problems and issues that needs to be solved. Most of us are not comfortable in dealing with problems and it’s either we tend to ignore it or the idea that we need to find an answer stresses us out.

We should not just be ready to solve a problem but we have to well-equipped in solving it effectively. Here are some tips on how to effectively solve problems:

Clearly identify the problem.

Have a clear understanding of what the issue is. Find out what’s the actual situation and it’s root cause. We may be seeing the larger picture but when we get down to the details, we will be able to identify what is actually causing the problem. Set aside individual interests that would address needs instead of directly dealing on what the problem is.

Identify opportunities and benefits.

Oftentimes, we always see the problem as is, a problem. We fail to look at it as an opportunity and fail to see how we can benefit from it. As we list down the problem and determine its cause, don’t forget to include the possible opportunities and benefits that we could gain from it. This is the part where interests can be acknowledged and how each can benefit when the problem is solved.

Think of all the possible ways to solve the problem.

As we identify the problem, the next step is to list down all the different ways it can be solved. Be as creative as you can get. Do your research. Prioritize possible solutions and list down their pros and cons. As you think of as many solutions as you can, this will help you narrow down to the best possible one.

Make a decision and course of action.

Decide which solution you think is best to solve your problem. Analyze your list of solutions, maybe you can combine them and create an action plan that would be the most effective way. Decide on it right away to avoid incurring additional losses because the problem is still there while you’re taking your time to decide.

Delegate responsibilities.

As you brainstorm with your team on how to solve them problem and what’s the best action plan, start delegating tasks to your members. Identify who is the most skilled to handle each item of the solution.

Document.

It is best if there is proper documentation as soon as you started tackling the problem. Write everything down and send the minutes to the team members after each time you meet so they can also use it as reference while they’re working on your action plan. This documentation can also be used as reference in case something similar or another problem occurs in the future.

Set measures for the solutions and evaluate.

Set standards and guidelines on how you will monitor compliance and progress as each member works on solving the problem. Create deadlines and milestones to guide you on where you are at each time you meet. These measures will also help you determine if the problem is already solved.

Solving problems effectively will take some time but it will definitely avoid dealing with problems unsolved or solved inefficiently. Knowing how to efficiently solve problems is also a great skill to have in both your organization and in your personal life. Here at DyCom SmartStaff, we make sure that the services we provide our partners would provide them the solutions they need to address their business needs and would help them achieve success. Contact us to find out more