Time is a commodity! We are all familiar with this notion, especially if you lead a team and have all the responsibilities that go with it. Imagine a world where every problem on your desk is already half-solved, your team feels empowered to make decisions, and you, as a leader, have the time to focus on what truly matters.
Josh Cote from EAW Consulting advocates the 131 Method, a simple approach that can transform your leadership and your team’s productivity. How does it work?
The 131 method in business refers to a strategic approach designed to streamline decision-making, focus efforts, and achieve specific goals. While the exact origin and application can vary, the 131 method generally involves the following structure:
1 Objective: Identify a clear problem you wish to solve.
3 Strategies: Develop three key strategies to overcome the problem. These strategies should be broad approaches or pathways that will guide your efforts and resource allocation.
1 Recommendation: Choose the most viable strategy and identify one specific tactic to focus on.
EAW Consulting uses this method when working with startup businesses looking to scale; here, Josh Cote explains the 131 theory in more detail.
A Problem Well Defined is a Problem Half Solved
According to the 131 method, the first step when faced with a problem is clearly defining it. This might sound obvious, but it’s a crucial step often overlooked. By spending time upfront to understand the problem thoroughly, you set a strong foundation for finding the right solutions.
A well-defined problem is indeed half solved because clarity brings focus, and focus leads to actionable insights. This step requires asking the right questions, gathering relevant information, and truly understanding the issue’s nuances.
Ask questions such as:
- What is the specific issue we are facing?
- How does this problem impact our team or organisation?
- What are the underlying causes of this problem?
- Who is affected by this issue, and how?
- What has been done previously to address this problem, and what were the outcomes?
- What resources are currently available to help solve this issue?
These questions help focus the problem and create a clear definition from the outset.
Identify the Three Most Viable Options
Once the problem is clearly defined, the next step is identifying the three most viable options. This step involves exploring different pathways and considering various perspectives.
Encourage your team to brainstorm and think creatively. Why three options? It’s a strategic number—more than one to provide choice, but not too many to overwhelm. This approach ensures that your team considers multiple angles and doesn’t settle for the first solution that comes to mind. It encourages critical thinking and thorough evaluation.
Make One Strong Recommendation
The next step from the three viable options is to make one strong recommendation. This is where the decision-making process becomes more focused. The team evaluates the pros and cons of each option and selects the most promising one.
Narrowing it down to one recommendation ensures the team’s efforts are directed towards the most strategic solution. This step also builds confidence in decision-making and accountability within the team.
Empower Your Team to Choose
Here’s a great time-saving tip: Instead of making the final decision yourself, ask your team, “What is the one thing you think we should do out of the three viable options?”
This question shifts the decision-making responsibility to the people with the most context and qualified to address the problem.
Let’s face it: you probably already know the answer, but delegating decision-making to the team empowers them and frees up your time.
Reclaim Your Time
The 131 Method is powerful because it decentralises decision-making. As a leader, you buy back your time, allowing you to focus on vision, strategy, and growth. Your team becomes more effective and motivated, knowing their insights and recommendations are valued. It’s a win-win situation where problems are solved more efficiently, and your organisation becomes more agile and responsive.
For more insights on building a strong team, contact Josh at EAW Consulting.
