Implementing a decision should be approached as though it is a mini project. This method ensures that the implementation process remains on track, team members are informed, and the desired outcomes are achieved. The following steps outline how to effectively implement your decision and manage the process.
Steps for Implementing Your Decision
1. Put Quality Control Systems in Place
- Purpose: Ensure the outcome of your decision aligns with the original plan.
- How to Implement:
- Develop a quality control system to monitor outcomes.
- Regularly measure the progress and quality of tasks.
- Compare work done with predefined methods and standards.
- Monitor time: track task stages, hours spent, and estimated time remaining.
Tip: Foster a culture of commitment to quality within your team by leading by example.
2. Report Progress Regularly and Communicate Clearly
- Purpose: Keep stakeholders informed and motivated.
- How to Implement:
- Establish communication channels early on, defining:
- What information is needed.
- How frequently updates are required.
- The format (spreadsheet, chart, report, etc.).
- Hold regular team meetings or teleconferences.
- Share team achievements and milestones with stakeholders.
- Establish communication channels early on, defining:
Tip: Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and builds trust.
3. Manage the Change Process
- Purpose: Smoothly manage any changes resulting from the decision.
- How to Implement:
- Plan communication around the change.
- Address key questions for those affected:
- What is changing?
- Why is it changing?
- How will it impact them?
- Choose communication methods carefully (meetings, emails, etc.).
Tip: Early communication of changes minimizes resistance and fosters buy-in.
4. Monitor and Adapt
- Purpose: Stay flexible and address problems as they arise.
- How to Implement:
- Continuously monitor progress and identify issues early.
- Use tools like Fishbone Analysis to find the root causes of problems:
- Identify the problem along the ābackbone.ā
- Explore causes related to people, processes, technology, or environment.
- Brainstorm potential factors contributing to the problem.
- Prioritize solutions and create an action plan to resolve the issue.
Tip: Regular monitoring allows for quick intervention and course correction.
Fishbone Analysis for Problem Solving
How to Use Fishbone Analysis:
- Identify the main problem.
- Categorize causes (people, processes, systems, etc.).
- Brainstorm potential factors under each category.
- Review and prioritize causes.
- Develop solutions and an action plan.
Action Plan:
- Include timescales, priorities, and responsibilities to resolve the issue.
- Continuously adapt the plan as new challenges arise.
Review and Learn
Once the decision has been implemented successfully, hold a review meeting to:
- Discuss what worked well.
- Apply successful strategies to future decisions.
- Identify and avoid mistakes made during the process.
Key Points: A well-planned implementation process leads to smoother execution, greater team engagement, and more successful outcomes.
