7-Step Formula for Solving Problems

I have developed an easy 7-step formula for solving problems that will help you make better decisions.  Using this system will help you focus on looking at all possible solutions before making a decision, and will help you measure your possible options. 

Many times owners and managers make decisions without looking at all possible options, which usually leads to bad decisions because it becomes a rush to judgment.

This very basic and simple problem-solving system will work on just about any type of problem whether complex or simple.  Remember to be open-minded with thinking of alternative solutions to the problem, and stay focused on the best interest for the property.

Step 1.   Define the problem.
This is often where people struggle. They react to what they think the problem is.  Instead, seek to understand more about why you think there's a problem.  Write down why, who, what, when, and how it is happening.

Step 2.   Look for potential causes of the problem.
It's amazing how much you don't know about what you don't know. Therefore, in this step, it's critical to get input from other people who notice the problem and who are affected by it.

Step 3.   Identify possible options for resolving the problem.
At this point, it's useful to keep others involved (unless you're facing a personal and/or employee performance problem).  Brainstorm for solutions to the problem. Very simply put, brainstorming is collecting as many ideas as possible, and then screening them to find the best idea.

It's critical when collecting the ideas to not pass any judgment on the ideas -- just write them down as you hear them.

Step 4.   Eliminate the options that are unrealistic.
When selecting the best approach, consider: (A) Which approach is the most likely to solve the problem for the long term (doing the right thing)?  (B) Which approach is the most realistic to accomplish for now? Do you have the resources? Are they affordable? Do you have enough time to implement the approach?  (C) What is the extent of risk associated with each alternative?

Step 5.   Write down the Pro’s and Con’s of each option.
With the remaining options, take out a piece of paper and write down the Pro’s and Con’s of each alternative.

Step 6.   Rate the Pro’s and Con’s from 1 to 10.
Rate each Pro and Con from 1 to 10.  Add up the scores and see which alternative has the highest score.

Step 7.   Determine which option is best for the property.
Make sure the alternative with the highest score is in the best interest of the property.

Use this system to help make well-reasoned decisions.  The outcome of a turnaround is a reflection of the decisions you made along the way.  It is referred to as “Cause & Effect.”   All EFFECTS are the result of some CAUSE.  The question is, will the CAUSE you are implementing produce the EFFECTS you desire?