In project management, it’s easy to confuse symptoms with problems. However, identifying the root cause is the key to unlocking successful solutions.
Here’s a common example:
📉 Symptom: “Our team keeps missing deadlines.”
🔍 Problem: Poor backlog refinement, unclear priorities, or a lack of capacity planning.
Or another:
📈 Symptom: “Our stakeholders are unhappy with deliverables.”
🔍 Problem: Misaligned expectations, insufficient feedback loops, or scope creep.
As a Program Manager, I’ve learned that addressing symptoms is like putting a bandage on a wound—it might look better for a moment, but the underlying issue remains. By digging deeper and focusing on the root cause, we solve the immediate challenge, improve processes, and build stronger teams.
💡 How to shift your perspective:
1️⃣ Ask “Why?” five times.
2️⃣ Engage your team in retrospective discussions.
3️⃣ Use metrics to identify patterns (e.g., cycle time, lead time, or defect rates).
4️⃣ Collaborate with stakeholders to clarify expectations early.
Remember, a symptom is just the visible tip of the iceberg. The real challenge lies beneath the surface. Dive deep to navigate your projects to success!
How do you ensure you’re solving problems instead of addressing symptoms?
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