How to prioritize problems?

 How to prioritize problems? 

(Emotional Management for Personal & Professional Growth Series)

                              

 As we discussed the steps in structured problem solving, in this series, let us discuss some of the insights in each step as this helps the Managers/ Leaders to get a perspective on the practical dilemma in problem-solving.
 
One of the challenges for most managers and business leaders is "How to prioritize the problems in the organization ?"

The question arises as there are many problems in the organization, and almost all work on one or other problems. Still, in the end, the quantum of the problem remains the same, or the organizational objectives are not met consistently. This scenario is most common in an organization where people are busy managing a day-to-day crisis.

Some leaders are good at prioritizing the problems, channeling all the resources in solving that problem, and finally making an impact on business, thereby creating a pleasant work environment.This competency is required for every leader and can be learned as well.

One method of prioritizing the problems in the organization is through  Impact Vs. Complexity.

Impact vs Complexity:

Impact means if the problem is resolved, it will improve business performance like delivery, revenue, customer retention, morale etc.

Complexity means the solution calls for many stakeholders or cross-functional teams and the problem arises due to a variety of reasons like people, equipment, money, communication issues etc. Generally, a day-to-day crisis management methodology cannot solve the complexity.



For example, 

As a leader, if you choose a "customer delivery problem" as a priority for solving through a structured approach, it will significantly impact the organization. The delivery problems also call for involving cross-functional stakeholders and addressing many areas.

when you choose the high impact vs high complexity problem and involve many stakeholders as part of the structured problem solving and delegate in submodules, eventually, the solutions will make the organization make a high impact on business performance and morale of the people.

alternatively, when we choose low impact and less or more complex problems, neither the organization will realize many benefits nor the problems deserve much attention from many .

As Managers / Leaders, we need to have clarity on where to focus for higher impact!

Have a great week ahead!