Frances Frei, a Harvard Business School professor and co-author of "Move Fast and Fix Things," discusses effective strategies for problem-solving in organizations. She emphasizes identifying the real issues and the importance of building trust and relationships. Frei introduces a five-step approach, including a narrative for solutions, and highlights tools like the 'Five Whys' for uncovering root causes. She also addresses inclusivity and the impact of subtle workplace indignities, promoting a culture of effective communication and collaboration.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Move Fast and Fix Things
Build trust to move faster and fix things, not break them.
Focus on accelerating excellence, not reckless disruption.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Communication Problem
A company's perceived "gender problem" stemmed from the founders' aggressive communication style.
This repelled women and most men, highlighting the importance of addressing the root cause.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Find the Real Problem
Address the root cause of problems, not just symptoms.
Use the "five whys" to uncover the real issue.
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The Trusted Leader's Guide to Solving Hard Problems
Frances X. Frei
Anne Morriss
This book challenges the belief that speed and excellence are mutually exclusive. Frances Frei and Anne Morriss, based on their work with companies like Uber, Riot Games, and WeWork, outline five essential steps to solve hard problems quickly while strengthening organizations. These steps include identifying real problems, building and rebuilding trust, creating a thriving culture, communicating powerfully, and empowering teams. The book offers a one-week plan to implement these steps and improve organizational performance at an exhilarating speed.
You’ve likely heard the phrase, “Move fast and break things.” But Harvard Business School professor Frances Frei says speed and experimentation are not enough on their own. Instead, she argues that you should move fast and fix things. (That’s also the topic and title of the book she coauthored with Anne Morriss.)
In this episode, Frei explains how you can solve any problem in five clear steps. First, she says, start by identifying the real problem holding you back. Then move on to building trust and relationships, followed by a narrative for your solution — before you begin implementing it.
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