Problem-Solving That Works
The problem with problem-solving is distorted thinking.
When you ask, “What’s the problem,” you usually get symptoms.
Don’t hate problems. They make you relevant.
3 Ways to Prolong Problems
#1. Seek solutions in isolation.
Sit around a conference table with managers and higher-ups. Don’t include the people doing the work.
#2. Believe talking is problem-solving.
Talking creates the illusion of action.
#3. Succumb to the seduction of complexity.
Stop needing to sound smart. Reject ideas that can’t be explained with a few simple sentences.
Problem-Solving that Works
Stop circling ideas. Focus on behaviors.
#1. Distill problems into behaviors.
Ask two questions. What are people doing that causes this issue? What are people not doing that creates trouble?
A problem defined in behavioral terms is 50% solved.
#2. Distill solutions into behaviors.
Ask one question. What behaviors are likely to produce desired outcomes?
Vagaries are the enemy of success. Simple actions outperform theories. Behaviors surpass thoughts.
3 Problems You Can’t Solve with Behaviors
#1. Broken Systems
Behavior tweaks can’t fix dysfunctional structures.
Slow delivery problems aren’t fixed by telling workers to “move faster,” when the real issue is outdated inventory management software.
Talent can’t overcome disorganization.
#2. Lack of Capacity
No amount of behavioral clarity solves understaffing or unrealistic workload. Don’t expect three people to do the work that requires six.
#3. Conflicting Values
You can’t behavior-your-way through conflicting values. When people don’t believe in the goal, they won’t act like they do.
Act Today
- Identify one behavior that causes a problem.
- Define one behavior that produces progress.
- Take action before the day ends.
Stop thinking about problem-solving and start behaving your way into solutions.
Why do the same problems persist?
Which idea in this post can you apply today?
When Problem-Solving is a Problem
Problem-Solving Skills Essential for Leadership Success
In regard to #2, you can’t always put more people on the assignment if work needs to be sequentially. In other words, it takes one woman being pregnant for nine months, not nine women each pregnant for one month. And yes, some folks need it stated that clearly to understand that more people may not be the answer.
Genius is simple and clear!
Dan, I deeply appreciate how you put the cookies on the bottom shelf. You break this down into manageable pieces.
Identify one behavior that causes a problem.
Define one behavior that produces progress.
Take action before the day ends.
Now that’s doable! Identify [only] one behavior/problem and take [an] action, make some progress – you’re not suggesting trying to solve the whole thing at once. Be happy with a single and not a homerun.
Thanks!
Pete, you remind me that it’s fun swinging for the fence, but we strike out more often when we do. Progress feels good. The desire to be a hero blocks incremental progress.
I really appreciate tempering the straightforward behavior solution with “Three Problems You Can’t Solve With Behavior.”
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