Fire, Aim, Ready
We love to solve problems! We like to act quickly to solve a problem based on the initial "facts" that we have. Rarely is real problem is the same as the initial or apparent problem. In our desire to “find a solution” we fire before we aim, and aim before we’re ready. We,
Judge the situation through our bias, prejudice, and experience, Start by formulating our conclusions, Focus on a solution we intuitively favor, Get distracted by symptoms, familiar patterns, & expectations, Don't know how to analyze a problem
Our task here is to get clear on the nature of the problem -- to separate the real from the apparent, the significant from the insignificant -- to find the relevant. To do this, slow down the process. Don't rush to solution! Our role is to be like an archeologist -- begin by sifting through the data in search of relevant information.
Ready, Aim, Fire...
Many times we are assigned situations that need to be resolved. What follows is a process for quickly getting started.
READY—collect data, stay neutral, and be patient.
Describe the apparent or presenting situation (problem)
What is happening? vs. What is not happening? Where is it happening? vs. Where is not happening? When is it happening? Vs. When is not happening?
What should be happening? (The standard)
What is the significance -- How big is the problem -- is it worth solving, Why?
What happens if we don't solve this problem?
What do we know...don't we know?
What data is…
Directly related to the situation -- Indirectly related to the situation -- Has no apparent relationship to the situation --
What other information do we want? Where will we get it?
AIM -- Redefine the situation
Set the goal
How will we know when we're successful
What is our action plan with tasks and assignments?
FIRE – Act!
Check your progress and relationships frequently and correct as needed