A Better Approach to Problem-Solving

The Importance of Mechanisms

• To make real changes, we need a mechanism - a plan that will work every time. A mechanism is made up of four key components: process, tool, adoption, and audit.

Process

• A clear and defined process is the backbone of any mechanism. It provides a roadmap for what needs to be done, in what order, and how. A well-defined process ensures that everything is done the right way, every time.

Tool

• A tool is where the process lives and where your logic and data reside. It can be as simple as a whiteboard or a to-do list, or as complex as a project management tool. The tool must guide the process, ensuring predictability and repeatability, and prevent errors.

Adoption

• A great process and tool are useless if people don't know about them or don't know how to use them. Your mechanism must be adopted by everyone, without exception. Over-communication is key to ensuring widespread adoption.

Audit

• Even with a well-defined process, effective tool, and widespread adoption, mechanisms can still deteriorate over time. An audit is necessary to ensure accountability and to make sure the mechanism continues to work effectively.

Conclusion

• Let's adopt a problem-solving approach that goes beyond good intentions. By having a mechanism in place for every problem we aim to solve, we will be able to make real changes that stick.