Business problem solving: it requires time and thought, but it's a process that's well worth the effort.

One fact about business is certain: business leaders will encounter challenges that require problem-solving skills. Those who can employ the fundamentals of business problem solving are best equipped to outlast the problem.

The basics to business problem solving are consistent with the problem-solving process in every area of our lives. Problem solving requires time, and with time most problems can be solved. However, you must take advantage of that time of by: (1) recognizing there is a problem, (2) identifying the cause of the problem, (3) gathering accurately all facts relating to the problem and (4) assessing the realistic options available to resolve the problem.

Once the cause of the problem has been identified, all of the pertinent facts must be obtained. If any facts are missing, distorted or inaccurate, then the process of resolving the problem will be flawed.

Problem solving requires tools for management's use. The primary tool is discipline. Management must be committed to resolving the problem regardless of the outcome. Departments may be closed, plants may be consolidated, jobs may be lost, volume may decline, and as a result, other problems may surface from these actions. Therefore, the process must be extended to the very end to project the ultimate overall impact on the company.

Problem solving also requires pain and sometimes embarrassment, and the very nature of the individual is to avoid pain at all costs. However, if the problem is not confronted head on, the effort to avoid the problem is often and usually greater and more painful than that which is required to resolve the problem.

Outside help is often critical to the business problem-solving process. The "can't see the forest through the trees" syndrome is often present in many companies and the outside independent adviser, who does not have existing causes to champion, can be very effective in developing alternatives and options without regard to "sacred cows" or long-time relationships.

This process can be accelerated depending on the severity of your situation. Problems that threaten the life of your company deserve expediency, whereas other problems that may merely be a stumbling block can take a course over time as established by management.

With business problem solving, the old adage "today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday" proves true. Remembering the basics will enable you to worry less and focus on solutions.

RELATED ARTICLE: 10 basic steps

1. Recognize and identify the problem or problems.

2. Separate each problem as much as possible.

3. Gather all information and facts surrounding the problem.

4. Place a priority on the problem-solving process. It should have top priority.

5. Develop solutions and options to resolve the problem.

6. Thoroughly complete the above five steps and prepare a written overview of the process that was followed.

7. Select an independent outside adviser or consultant to confirm management's recommended course of action and explore alternatives or options that may have been missed.

8. Select a course of action.

9. Solicit company-wide support.

10. Take immediate, decisive steps without further delay.

James V. McTevia is chairman of McTevia and Associates Inc. in Eastpointe, a member of the Detroit Regional Chamber.

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