Step 4: Evaluate the Outcome

Evaluation is the last step in the problem solving process. Once implementation starts it is critical that the manager continuously evaluate the outcomes and if necessary adapt the plans to ensure effective implementation.

Once we have:

• developed effective, relevant plans,
• involved those people crucial to the success of the plan(s),
• articulated appropriate, desirable goals,
• established relevant evaluation processes,
• focused on appropriate performance indicators, and
• covered a range of contingencies,

we will probably feel we have covered everything. Well almost, there are two important areas still to be considered – maintenance and evaluation.

Maintenance planning is often called follow-through. Developing a plan and implementing it can be a waste of time and resources if sufficient attention is not paid to keeping it in place. Regular monitoring, ongoing support, intermittent rewards and recognition are the important factors in keeping any newly implemented plan alive. Having these in place at the start give much greater certainty of having our plan carried through to completion.

The ramifications of new plans keep managers in work. Everything we do has consequences, some anticipated, others not. Staying alert to the formulation of new plans and new developments. Being prepared, anticipating results, picking up on unexpected outcomes and being on the spot and ready to move are all prerequisites for an ongoing process of development and growth towards the desired future state.

It is important to keep our networks alive and monitor what is going on around us. “Keeping your fingers on the pulse” is virtual to achieving success as a manager. This basically means that we should engage in low-level diagnosis constantly so that when a crisis arises we could respond quickly and effectively. When less urgent problems surface or new vistas open up, we will be in a position to deal with them or take advantage of them with a minimum of bother.

The following steps are helpful in the monitoring process:

Monitor Implementation of the Plan

Monitor the indicators of success:

• Are you seeing what you would expect from the indicators?
• Will the plan be done according to schedule?
• If the plan is not being followed as expected, then consider: Was the plan realistic? Are there sufficient resources to accomplish the plan on schedule? Should more priority be placed on various aspects of the plan? Should the plan be changed?

Verify if the Problem has been Resolved or Not

One of the best ways to verify if a problem has been solved or not is to resume normal operations in the organization. Still, you should consider:

• What changes should be made to avoid this type of problem in the future? Consider changes to policies and procedures, training, etc.
• Lastly, consider "What did you learn from this problem solving?" Consider new knowledge, understanding and/or skills.
• Consider writing a brief memo that highlights the success of the problem solving effort, and what you learned as a result. Share it with your supervisor, peers and subordinates.