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Writer's pictureYvonne Root

Building Better Problem-Solving Skills




Savvy construction executives have developed (or are developing) top-notch problem-solving skills.


Even if you were born with a highly developed problem-solving gene or learned early on problem-solving basics, you can continue to grow this highly desired trait.


Think of it like this, just as top athletes develop muscle memories for their skills, top construction management executives develop muscle memories for problem-solving. And just as those athletes must continue practicing their skills, so must the executives in the construction world.



It is Called

Problem-solving comes under several different guises. You may think of it as:

  • Thinking on your feet

  • Being able to ad-lib

  • Extemporizing

  • Improvising

  • Playing it by ear

  • Winging it

  • Moving on the spur of the moment

  • Doing it on the fly

  • Rising to the occasion

  • Formulating

  • Working it out

  • Coming up with

  • Predicament resolution


The Stages Involved

  • Determine the issues that created the problem. Does the immediate problem need to be dealt with while still working on what underlying issues need correcting? Are financial or deadline matters involved?

  • Consider the people who will be affected. What are their interests? The priorities involved in the resolution will take people into account.

  • List the possible solutions. Will it take a team to get this information? Will you need to include others who know what you don’t know? Can you get the data differently?

  • Evaluate the possible solutions. Is it time to choose a set of criteria for determining good, better, best possibilities? Will a simple listing of pros and cons be worthwhile?

  • Select the best option for the moment.

  • Write down the best solution with all the details and implications.

  • Make contingency plans. Remind those involved of the changes. And when you make changes, try to anticipate the inevitable fallout.

  • Implement the solution.


Learn More

This article from mindtools discusses the Six Thinking Hats® way of looking at decisions differently.


You may want to check into taking one of these online classes concerning problem-solving. From Coursera or Digital Defynd.


Finally, this excellent essay from Effectiviology discussing the protégé effect gives information that is arguably among the best ways to learn more about any subject, including problem-solving.




Construction Contractors look to The Profit Constructors to provide advocacy in dealing with:


  • Clients and customers

  • Employees and subcontractors

  • Vendors and service providers

  • Governmental entities


Working with The Profit Constructors gives Construction Contractors the means to organize their operations in ways that help them:


  • Remain informed

  • Avoid hassles

  • Reduce risks

  • Be future-ready


Ready for action? Or want to know more? Get in touch today to schedule a complimentary discovery call. 866-629-7735

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