Solving the BIG PROBLEM

The difference between highly successful companies and the also–rans isn’t found in the ability to solve problems. Instead, finding and focusing on often hidden opportunities that are worth solving is a defining characteristic of established winners.

I’m certain your experience is similar to mine. A problem arises, and we are forced to focus on details of the situation. What we learn during this detailed analysis, not only helps us solve the problem at hand but leads to other significant gains. Is there a way to get the improvement without suffering through the "big problem"?

At Process Coaching Incorporated we are helping our clients do just this. Implementing a metrics management system consistent with established lean principles is the way to provide focus before the “big problem” erupts.

Are you looking in the right place?

One evening a man walking home meets a man on all fours.  The man is searching frantically under a streetlight for something on the ground.

“What have you lost?” the passer-by asks.

“I am searching for my key.”

“I’ll help you look,” the passer-by replies and joins the him in his search. Soon both men are down on their knees under the streetlight, looking for the lost key. After some time, the passer-by asks, “Do you remember exactly where you lost the key?”

The man waves his arm back toward the darkness and says, “Over there, in the alley, I lost the key in the alley…”

 Shocked and exasperated, the passer-by jumps up and asks, “Then why are we looking for the key out here in the street?”

“Because there is more light here than in the alley.