Abstraction and Precision in Standardization
Standardization is good, right? Well, it’s not quite that simple. We should standardize something because it helps us solve a problem, as I wrote about in Chapter 3 of People Solve Problems. Two variables in finding the RIGHT solution of standardization are the level of abstraction and the level of
Read MoreBreaking Down the Problem
Problem-solving is always a battle to get more focused and specific in what gap we are trying to close. Both the capabilities of problem statements as well as breaking down the problems help us do this, but they are more than just steps in a problem-solving tool. I write about
Read MoreBe Responsive, Not Reactive
Many organizations lost most of their momentum of continuous improvement and proactive problem solving throughout the pandemic, ending up forced into a stance of reactiveness. Many of those same organizations are struggling to climb out of that hole, especially where they are still fighting fires, such as those managing supply
Read MoreThe 3-legged 5 Whys
When I wrote the book “People Solve Problems,” I approached the book in a tool-agnostic way. As far as the book is concerned, I don’t particularly care which problem-solving tools you are using. However, tools do still matter (which I also make clear in the book). Here’s a tool that
Read MoreIntegrating the Voice of Many Coaches
Most people get coaching from multiple people, whether it be on their work, on their career, or just within problem-solving. How do you decide which coach to listen to? Well, that’s the wrong question, and in this video, I explain why. Watch here: https://youtu.be/B5PpWaVX9vs
Read MoreAuditing Your Problem-Solving System
If you are an organization that does auditing or assessment, you should be looking at anything that’s important for success. This certainly should include your problem-solving. Whether you utilize Leader Standard Work, Layered Process Audits, or simply want to do an informal assessment, here are some things to think about
Read MoreYour Problem Solving Spectrum
Your spectrum of problems that your team engages with can span from firefighting to strategic breakthroughs, and many levels in between. However, it is very difficult for a team to operate all across the spectrum at once. You have a critical mass of problem-solving efforts and that anchors what your
Read MoreMetrics: It’s about more than measurements [from the archives]
We often hear “we cannot manage what we cannot measure”. I think the better way to say it and approach improvement is that you cannot manage or improve what you cannot evaluate. As you are looking to improve something you need to ask how you are going to understand what
Read MoreDiscard Angst and Worry (Jamie’s Short Course on a Purposeful and Productive Life)
Episode 8 in the Series – As many people start their new year, they seek ways to lead a more purposeful and productive life. There are many big solutions out there – coaches, books, courses, and more. But through my own coaching, I find there are many nuggets, each of
Read MoreDaily measurements (Jamie’s Short Course on a Purposeful and Productive Life)
Episode 7 in the Series – As many people start their new year, they seek ways to lead a more purposeful and productive life. There are many big solutions out there – coaches, books, courses, and more. But through my own coaching, I find there are many nuggets, each of
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