How We Serve You : White Papers
Implementing a Business Operating System:
A Systems Approach for Achieving Bottom-Line Results
Implement Problem Solving Techniques
Once the team is satisfied with the measures, a two-day workshop is held teaching team problem solving techniques. Team problem solving is a structured process that is focused on identifying and resolving system constraints. The steps in the process are:
- Select a team. This step outlines the structure of the team, the roles and responsibilities and the ground rules that should be established
- Describe the problem. The focus of this step is the use of tools that will help the team to develop an appropriate problem description.
- Identify the root cause. The root cause is often the main reason why the problem developed. The idea is to focus on system constraints.
- Select possible solutions. This step may involve some preliminary investigation before deciding on an appropriate solution.
- Implement the solution. At this step, an outline needs to be developed providing details on the tasks that must be implemented to ensure effective implementation of the solution.
- Prevent System Problems. This step identifies the actions that should be put in place to prevent recurrence of the problem.
The use of problem solving techniques is very critical, as teams not only have the ability to identify performance problems but need to have the tools in place to respond if performance is unfavorable. The problem solving workshops often involve the use of current data so that individuals can begin to apply the concept to real life situations. In addition, follow-up workshops are held with teams to review and reinforce concepts of problem solving.
