A Causal Factor In Not Solving A Problem Is In Choosing The Wrong Tool In Problem Solving
Everything we do in a business is a process. There are five (5️⃣) key elements of every process. A process 1️⃣requires understanding and once we understand a process we will realise that a process 2️⃣has variables and that these process variables 3️⃣must be properly controlled. We will also understood that a process 4️⃣has a capacity and that process capacity 5️⃣must be continuously improved.
Again here are the five (5️⃣) elements of every process:
1️⃣requires UNDERSTANDING,
2️⃣has VARIABLES,
3️⃣must be properly CONTROLLED,
4️⃣has a CAPACITY and
5️⃣needs to be CONTINUOUSLY IMPROVED.
When it comes to trouble shooting process problems in our continuous improvement endeavours, some problems are 'tactical' and the solutions are 'just-do-its'. That is, the root cause is known and a quick fix can be put into place following the standard or SOP.
But too often we complicate trouble shooting by choosing the wrong tool.
About 80% of the process problems are a result of not following SOPs or standards which can be akin to a 'choke' that prevents slippage from progress made.
The first question to ask “Is it a deviation from a SOP or Standard?” If “Yes” then follow SOP and if “No” then “Do you know what happened?” If “Yes” then we are entering an area where 18% of the problem lay and if “No” then that’s an area where 2% of the problems lay.
Tools chosen should match the complexity of our problems.