How can you ensure your problem-solving solutions are industry-standard?

You first need to know the standards, specs, performance or operating procedures that are required to be applied in place. If there is a problem -> identify first if it is in compliance with the Specs, and if it is, address to that level first since the rules are/might be the problem.

👌I strongly emphasize the importance of thorough problem research before embarking on solution-finding. This initial step sets the stage for effective problem-solving and ensures that the solutions devised are well-informed and aligned with actual needs. 📌 Example : A company sought to improve customer satisfaction but haphazardly implemented new solutions without fully understanding the underlying issues. As a result, these solutions failed to address the root causes, leading to further customer dissatisfaction. The company then engaged in thorough problem research, identifying the true pain points and developing targeted solutions that ultimately enhanced customer satisfaction.

To ensure your problem-solving abilities are at par with industry standards, Firstly, stay updated on the latest trends and technologies relevant to your industry. Seek out opportunities for professional development, such as attending workshops, seminars, or online courses that focus on problem-solving techniques specific to your field. Engage in case studies or real-life scenarios to practice your problem-solving skills in a simulated environment. Collaborate with colleagues or join professional networks to exchange ideas and learn from others' experiences. Finally, seek feedback from mentors or supervisors to identify areas for improvement and work on refining your problem-solving abilities.

To ensure problem-solving solutions align with industry standards, follow these steps: understand relevant regulations, involve subject matter experts, conduct thorough research, benchmark against best practices, adopt standard methodologies, incorporate quality management systems, stay informed about industry trends, engage in continuous learning, collaborate with industry associations, regularly update policies and procedures, seek certifications or accreditations, conduct internal audits, document processes and decisions, collaborate with regulatory bodies, and remain adaptable and agile. These steps foster compliance, quality, and competitiveness within an organization, ensuring the effectiveness of problem-solving solutions.

Using a systematic problem solving process & methodology in identifying the cause(s) of a problem. I have found that ThinkReliability’s Cause-Mapping tool is extremely effective in identifying the true cause(s) of the any problem - regardless of its complexity. Similar to work-process mapping, this method breaks down and maps the “why” in steps and clearly shows the answer(s) to each “why”. This is especially useful in complex problems - where there is more than one answer to a “why”. My fave guideline of this method is that human error is never the final cause of any problem. This is frequently used as the “root cause, yet there is always a cause for human error ie: inadequate training, delayed information, unclear goals, etc

A company that prided itself on its innovative solutions. its products consistently fell short of industry benchmarks. In a moment of clarity, the CEO realized that the company had become too insular, focused solely on its own ideas without considering the broader market landscape. He then initiated a comprehensive benchmarking program, inviting industry experts to evaluate the company's solutions against the best practices. The results were eye-opening. The company discovered that its products were plagued by inefficiencies and outdated technologies. After a comprehensive benchmarking program, the company adopted industry-leading practices and transformed its solutions, leading to a surge in popularity, market share, and profitability.

I have to admit ; SWOT has been effective for over six decades.However, the more recent SOAR analysis resonates well with younger, innovative companies. Precision is essential in business planning, considering that many individuals utilizing these approaches, or other alternatives like: SCORE or NOISE , may lack specific training to discern the suitable option. The pursuit of expediency, driven by leadership pressures, has the potential to block innovation and creative thinking. While frameworks are indispensable, the guidance of an open minded leader is pivotal in preventing time-consuming and frustrating endeavors that might yield results in favor of decision-makers, rather than introducing proposals requiring a receptiveness to change.

Benchmark will have not only help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of your solutions, but also spark new ideas to solve future problems with a wider perspective and help think out the box. It will boost confidence and guide you in the right direction.

I always start by thoroughly understanding the specific requirements and best practices relevant to my field. Staying updated on industry trends and adopt proven methodologies as well as collaborating with peers, seeking feedback have been useful to me. I test my solutions in real-world scenarios based on feedback and performance evaluations.

Constant tweaking is key as progress is made. There is always room for improvement! Celebrate the wins, and keep pushing the tick forward.

Problem statements are evolving while the solution is either getting designed or deployed any framework that doesn't marry strategy with tactical brillance is bound to fail. Sustainable solutions should factor in chaos and dynamics of the evolving problem statements which cohesively connects the dots.