Structured Problem-Solving: The Framework That Reveals Your Team's Thought Process—And Prevents Wasted Work

🎙 In this episode of Systemize Your Success, I share a real-life example that highlights the importance of effective communication within a team. I recount a situation where a staff member, despite doing the necessary checks on our e-commerce software, failed to communicate her findings clearly, which left me feeling frustrated and led to unnecessary extra work on my part.  I delve into how this experience reinforced the need for the ‘Ideas Over Issues’ Framework, which encourages team members to articulate problems, outline their thought processes, and seek input from others. By the end of our discussion, I was able to praise her for her initiative and use this as a teaching moment to emphasise the value of clear communication.  Join me as I explore how a simple shift in communication can transform perceptions and enhance productivity in the workplace. KEY TAKEAWAYS 💡 Importance of Communication: Effective communication is crucial in the workplace. A simple lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings about performance and initiative, as demonstrated in the example where a staff member failed to convey the steps they had taken. 💡 ‘Ideas Over Issues’ Framework: This framework encourages individuals to present problems along with their thought processes and the actions they have taken. By stating the issue, outlining the intended following action, and detailing what has already been done, it fosters more transparent communication and understanding. 💡 Recognising Initiative: Leaders should encourage employees to think beyond documented tasks and take initiative. When they do so, it can lead to positive outcomes, but they must communicate their efforts to avoid misinterpretation of their work. 💡 Feedback and Coaching: Providing constructive feedback and coaching can help improve employee performance. Reinforcing the use of frameworks like Ideas Over Issues can empower staff to communicate more effectively in the future. 💡 Time Management: Miscommunication can lead to unnecessary work and wasted time. By ensuring that team members communicate their actions and findings, managers can save time and focus on more critical tasks, ultimately enhancing productivity. BEST MOMENTS 02:22 - 💬 “It was not about this person underperforming. It was about a simple lack of communication that made it appear that they hadn't.” 05:27 - 💬 “That simple omission, as in not documenting what she'd done, meant that I got a negative feeling about it rather than a really positive feeling about it.” 06:32 - 💬 “The Ideas Over Issues framework is when we state the problem, state the intended next action, state what you've already done or thought about it, and then request any further input.” VALUABLE RESOURCES Our Best Guides, Frameworks, and Templates: https://sys.academy/guides LINKS TO CONNECT WITH THE HOST Podcast: https://www.systemizeyoursuccess.com Website: https://systemsandoutsourcing.com/ Facebook Group: https://facebook.com/groups/systemsandoutsourcing/ LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/systemsandoutsourcing/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/systems_and_outsourcing/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@drsteveday42 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drsteveday42 ABOUT THE HOST Steve moved to Sweden in 2015 and transformed how he ran his businesses—switching to a fully remote model. A former NHS doctor, with a background in computing and property investing, he now helps overwhelmed business owners systemise and outsource effectively. Through his courses and coaching, Steve teaches how to automate operations and work with affordable virtual assistants, freeing up time and increasing profits. He runs his UK-based businesses remotely with support from a team of UK and Filipino VAs, and is passionate about helping others build scalable, stress-free companies using smart systems and virtual support.