Harvard Business School professor Frances Frei discusses the importance of moving fast and fixing things, not just breaking them. She outlines a five-step plan to solve company problems, focusing on trust, communication, inclusivity, root cause analysis, and ruthless prioritization.
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Quick takeaways
Effective problem-solving involves identifying the root cause and prioritizing trust-based solutions.
Building trust through authenticity, logic, and empathy is key to rapid problem-solving and organizational progress.
Deep dives
Moving Fast and Fixing Things
Moving fast and breaking things was a popular approach for innovation, but Harvard Business School professor Francis Fry suggests a better strategy is to move fast and fix things. By uncovering the real problem, building trust, and promoting inclusivity, organizations can accelerate progress. Trust is essential, involving authenticity, logic, and empathy. Understanding the root cause of problems and prioritizing solutions based on trust are key steps in effective problem-solving.
The Importance of Trust in Problem-Solving
Building trust is crucial in problem-solving. Trust can be rebuilt quickly by understanding its pillars: authenticity, logic, and empathy. To enhance trust, individuals must match broken trust with curated solutions for each pillar. Trust is not fragile but can be rebuilt rapidly with a solid understanding of its stable architecture.
Inclusive Decision-Making and Relationship Building
Inclusive decision-making involves inviting diverse voices to the table and ensuring their perspectives are heard and valued. By welcoming differing viewpoints and celebrating uniqueness, organizations can amplify their potential. Making new friends and championing underrepresented voices are essential steps in fostering diversity and inclusivity.
Clear Communication and Storytelling
Effective communication entails telling a compelling story that honors the past, presents a clear change mandate, and envisions an optimistic future. Rigorous storytelling that is easily understood and cascades through the organization helps determine the plan's effectiveness. Simplifying complex ideas and ensuring they are grasped at all levels of the organization is crucial for successful communication and progress.
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.
HBR On Leadership curates the best case studies and conversations with the world’s top business and management experts, to help you unlock the best in those around you. New episodes every week.