Turning Solutions into Lasting Change - lessons learned
Many teams spend enormous energy solving problems. This work is fun, team-engaging, and energizing. There is value here, however; the real benefits are realized when solutions are effectively implemented. This is the difference between good ideas and lasting, sticking change.
We have learned from many years of successes and stumbles that there are 5 steps of effective implementation. These steps consistently turn solutions into changes that are welcomed, embraced, meaningful, and designed to stick.
Why is effective implementation important?
- Problems are solved!
- Desired benefits and goals are achieved!
- People are engaged! There is pride and ownership of the changes!
- More knowledge, growth, and skills!
- Measurable improvement!
The five steps we've seen consistently create lasting change -
1. Create a process that is reliable, standardized and with clear accountabilities. Work process maps and standardized work instructions provide the guidance so that all team members know what to do, how to do it, resources to use, and what success looks like.
2. Teach the new process effectively. Use adult learning principles and the “Tell Show Do Recycle” approach to transfer new knowledge to team members so they can perform work in the new way with quality, safely and efficiently. Providing the "Do" and "Recycle" steps together several times truly locks in knowledge and skills. Training within Industries utilized 6 repetitions.
3. Define, operationalize, and visually track performance measures and targets. Establish ongoing operational measures with targets so that individuals and teams can judge their own performance.
4. Create a feedback mechanism for questions, collectively resolve problems, and spur more innovative ideas to incrementally improve. Team huddles are the best known way to ease implementation and continue engaging team members in ongoing improvement.
5. Coach performance; provide feedback and consequences.
- Ensure the changes in work processes are followed and identify where issues still exist.
- Get and give feedback with individuals; additional help if necessary.
- “Catch people doing it right”!
When teams apply these 5 steps after identifying solutions, improvements stick. Processes become stable, people gain confidence, and results and performance are known. We’ve seen these steps transform organizations and teams of all sizes.
If your team is working on improvements and wants support in making implementation smoother, stronger, and more sticky, we’re here to help.
