Why is it so tough to get to the root
of hard business problems? We see
breakdowns and problems every day. Somehow, we know there must be some way to
solve and prevent them. Everyone involved
gets frustrated and confused at different levels.
In Eric Ries article, “To Get To The Root Of A Hard Problem, Just Ask"Why" Five Times”, he explains companies move too fast to correct
mistakes and usually don’t react until those mistakes become a large enough to
impede success for the company. Another
reason is because managers believe it’s not worth their time to deal with the
small issues.
However, as Ries points out, once you get to the point where you can’t
ignore the problem, the best way to resolve it is to ask the "5 Why's". Toyota has used this process very effectively.
It’s good to call a time out and resolve problems at their roots. It’s even better to have a disciplined and
systematic way of dealing with nonstop issues.
In order to have them captured in a timely manner, the company's leadership needs to endorse open, honest and safe communications
around reporting problems. Then employees will feel free to report issues and why
they believe the issues exists. Once issues are clear, good teamwork and accountability will help them to be resolved
forever. For more details about how to powerfully prevent and resolve issues in your company, go to EOS Worldwide.
