When we get to the IDS® portion of our meeting, we waste 45 minutes debating minor operational details and never actually solve the root issue. How do we speed up our IDS®?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

Most leadership teams spend 90% of their time 'Discussing' and only 10% 'Identifying' and 'Solving.' This is backward. To speed up your IDS® (Identify, Discuss, Solve), you must master the 'I' first.

Before anyone starts debating, the person who raised the issue must state the problem in one clear sentence. The facilitator must then ask: 'What is the root cause of this issue?' Do not begin the discussion until the team agrees on what the actual problem is. Often, the stated issue is just a symptom of a deeper, systemic problem.

Once the root cause is identified, move to 'Discuss.' Keep discussions short and focused. Do not let team members repeat themselves or go down operational rabbit holes. As soon as the conversation starts looping, the facilitator must push for the 'Solve' by asking: 'What is the To-Do to fix this permanently?' Every solved issue must result in an actionable To-Do assigned to one specific person.