Fixing vs Solving Small Business Problems.
This episode has been updated and re-released:
Fixing vs Solving Small Business Problems with David Begin and Henry Lopez. Henry and David discuss the topic of fixing versus solving problems in our small businesses. Fixing usually deals with just the symptoms of a deeper and larger problem within your small business. The approach of looking for the source problem applies to many aspects of our business, from physical equipment to the people on our teams. Sometimes just fixing something is acceptable, but often we tend to avoid identifying and addressing the root problem because of time and money. Helping your team learn how to solve versus fix is also a challenge.
Fixing Symptoms vs. Addressing Root Causes: A Guide for Small Business Owners
In the fast-paced world of small business, problems are inevitable. When issues arise, the immediate instinct is often to put out the fire as quickly as possible. There’s a crucial difference, however, between fixing the symptoms of a problem and identifying and correcting its root cause. Understanding this distinction can be the difference between a thriving small business and one that’s perpetually stuck in crisis or chaos mode.
Treating Symptoms
When a problem manifests in a business, it often does so through various symptoms. These could be declining sales, low employee morale or conflicts, production defects, customer complaints, or other system failures. The natural inclination might be to address these symptoms directly and then move on to the next urgent issue. For example, if sales are down, a business might ramp up marketing efforts. If customers are complaining about a product, tweaks might be made to that specific product.
While this approach can offer quick relief, it’s often akin to putting a band-aid on a wound that requires stitches. The underlying issue remains unaddressed, and it’s only a matter of time before the symptoms reappear, often more severely and repeatedly.
Addressing Root Causes
In contrast, identifying and correcting the root cause of a problem involves a deeper level of analysis. This often requires stepping back and looking at the issue holistically. It may involve asking questions like, “Why are sales declining?” or “What is causing the product defects?” The answers could range from outdated business processes to a disconnect between the product and market needs.
Addressing the root cause often involves more time and resources upfront but pays off in the long run. By eliminating the underlying issue, you prevent the symptoms from reoccurring, leading to a more sustainable, robust and scalable business.
The Importance of Balance
It’s essential to strike a balance between the two approaches. Ignoring symptoms entirely while searching for the root cause can lead to immediate business losses and unhappy stakeholders. On the other hand, only treating symptoms without ever addressing the root cause can result in a cycle of recurring problems in your small business.
Tools and Techniques
Several tools can help in identifying root causes, such as the “Five Whys” technique, which involves asking “Why?” repeatedly until you reach the root cause. Flowcharts and mind maps can also be useful in visualizing the problem and its various dimensions. Small business coaches and consultants can offer an external perspective and expertise in identifying underlying issues.
Fixing vs Solving Small Business Problems
As a small business owner, your time and resources are limited. While it may be tempting to go for the quick fix, it’s crucial to invest in identifying and addressing the root causes of problems. This approach not only solves the issue at hand but also fortifies your business against similar challenges in the future. By being proactive and strategic in your problem-solving, you set the stage for long-term success.
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You can find all previous episodes of The How of Business podcast on our Archives page. Henry Lopez is the host of the podcast, and small business coach and mentor.