If the goal of leadership is about gettings things done, then we will need a formula to help us find solutions. The following formula can help you go through a process of finding the best solution to any leadership decision you could have to make. 

  • Clarify and define the problem
  • Gather information
  • Identify possible solutions
  • Evaluate potential solutions
  • Decide on solution
  • Evaluate feedback
  • Improve the solution
  • Complete the project

Understanding The Process

Clarify and define the problem

The first thing we need to do to solve any problem is to clearly define the problem. We also need to clearly define what we want our outcome to achieve. 

Gather information

Consider all possible sources for gathering information to evaluate the problem and identify solutions. 

If this is a widely researched topic there should be a lot of secondary information that can be used. It’s possible someone else has also encountered this problem before too, so you could potentially model a similar solution after what they found worked. 

If this is a unique problem or goal for your organization you will have to take the time to complete primary research. 

Identify possible solutions

After you have gathered enough information to make well informed decisions you can begin to identify solutions. Don’t worry about the quality of these solutions. You want to allow yourself to creatively think through solutions. Sometimes a new problem will require some serious creativity. When developing a list of solutions, you will probably start to notice some overlap that might give you the opportunity to combine some of these ideas to create the best solution. 

Evaluate potential solutions

When you are evaluating these potential solutions there are a few different things you should keep in mind. 

  • How quickly can you start using this solution?
  • How will this affect the client experience?
  • What resources do I need to start using this solution?
  • Is this the most effective solution?

Decide on solution

This step sounds the most obvious, but it is actually the step that most people will have a problem with. If we have done all of the other steps correctly, the right answer will usually reveal itself. 

One of the most important things in making decisions in leadership is to avoid being indecisive. This can’t be stressed enough. You need to go all in on the best decision and give every effort to make it work. 

Evaluate feedback

Establish feedback loops so you can monitor the process and find out how people feel about the solution. 

Improve the solution

After you have had days or weeks for feedback, start finding ways to make improvements. Keep moving forward but don’t let the sunk cost keep you from making major changes if they need to be made. 

Complete the project

At this point, you should have found a solution and completed your project. This is what leadership is all about, getting things done.