As a manager, you have to make decisions on a regular basis, this usually requires the use of some troubleshooting techniques. When problems arise and require solving, it’s important to remember that there may be more than one way to solve it. In order to find the best solution, it helps analyse the problem from different angles. Keep in mind that the first step is always information gathering. Analyse the situation and assess whether the next steps will get you closer to a solution. Let’s look at the various ways troubleshooting can be used as a way to solve problems at the office.
Troubleshooting and the Team
Even without managerial responsibility, you may be required to make important decisions on a daily basis. As a leader your team members default to you for guidance with your decisions affecting their performance and morale. The same applies to team members, where workflow may be dependent on each member’s output.
Sound decision-making is an important skill that can be learned over time with troubleshooting providing excellent practice. It’s also not just about making the right decision but knowing when and how to make it. In such a scenario, it is important to leverage the power of your team to analyse, assess and provide actionable solutions.
Asking the Right Questions
In troubleshooting, it’s important to remember that there is no single solution that applies universally. Sometimes the best way forward is simply to ask yourself:
- What do I know?
- How can I identify the problem?
- What are my available options for solving it?
When faced with a new challenge at work, try asking yourself these questions:
- What do I know about this problem?
- Is it something I’ve encountered before? If so, how did I deal with it then and what worked?
- Who else might be able to help me solve this issue?
Sometimes it can be as simple as stepping away from the problem for a while. Letting it simmer in your subconscious, while you are busy with more mundane tasks also helps your brain to come up with some answers.
The Answer May Be Obvious
Identify all possible solutions, even if they’re not obvious at first glance. Don’t be afraid to think creatively and consider options that may seem unconventional or weird. If a problem has been around for a while, there is usually more than one way to solve it. At Big Beard Web Solutions we often have to tackle a client’s issue from multiple angles before deciding on the best way forward.
Don’t be afraid to ask teammates for help. They may have experience with solving similar problems in the past, either in a current or similar role. They also offer the benefit of providing a different perspective, which usually triggers additional options to reach an adequate solution.
Conclusion
So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your problem-solving skills at work, consider using troubleshooting techniques. It’s an effective strategy that can be used in almost any situation. Usually, it’s a combination of asking the right questions and having open communication with your team members. Transparency is especially important when you consider that it usually takes a diverse set of skills and perspectives to reach the optimal conclusion.
Author: Beardem Beardsley
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