Article
Industrial Engineers don’t have to have solutions for everything!
We Industrial Engineers (IE's) are problem solvers. We use our knowledge of engineering, mathematics, and economics to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of processes and systems. While we (IE's) may have a deep understanding of the principles of engineering, we don't have to have solutions for every problem we encounter. In fact, it's often better for us to focus on the process of finding solutions, rather than trying to come up with the solutions ourselves.
There are a few reasons why it's important for IE's to focus on the process of finding solutions. First, it allows us to be more creative and innovative. When we don't have a preconceived notion of what the solution should be, we're free to explore a wider range of possibilities. This can lead to more creative and innovative solutions that would not have been possible if we had been limited by our own knowledge and experience.
Second, focusing on the process of finding solutions allows IE's to be more collaborative. When we work with other subject matter experts, we can tap into a wider range of knowledge and expertise. This can help us to identify and evaluate solutions that we might not have considered on our own.
Finally, focusing on the process of finding solutions allows IE's to be more adaptable. As problems change, so too must the solutions. By focusing on the process of finding solutions, we can be more agile and responsive to change.
Here are some tips for IE's who want to focus on the process of finding solutions:
1️⃣ Be a good listener. One of the best ways to learn about a problem is to listen to the people who are affected by it. When you listen to others, you gain a deeper understanding of the problem and the potential solutions.
2️⃣ Recognize talent around you: Observe and identify talent in your surroundings and across various platforms. Valuable ideas and solutions can come from anyone, and your ability to structure these insights from internal and external experts can make a significant difference.
3️⃣ Simulate solutions before implementation: Prioritize the simulation of proposed solutions to gauge their effectiveness and viability before full implementation.
4️⃣ Remain flexible with your solutions: After formulating a solution, challenge it and attempt to disprove it. If it withstands scrutiny, the solution is more likely to succeed. However, if it falters, be willing to return to the drawing board.
By following these tips, IE's can focus on the process of finding solutions and developing solutions that are effective, efficient, and sustainable.
Our focus at &diligence has always been to work with our clients on the process of finding solutions and then involving the internal experts, external subject matter experts, partners, vendors etc. to build validate implement and sustain the solution and continuously identify new objectives to work on.
