When problems takes time to solve, we can provide relief to reduce it's effect while we are solving them. Providing relief mean managing resources. Resources that are used for providing relief are not going to be used to solve the problem. In fact, providing relief will sometimes delay when the problem will be solved. The balance between providing relief and solving the problem should be considered carefully.
If the problem is being solved by a team, the team could be split into two groups. One group focuses on providing relief and managing the relief effort. The other group will focus on solving the problem and executing the 5Steps. However, if we are the only one solving the problem, the resource to manage is our time. We must focus on each effort seperately by putting aside time for each. When solving the problem, use the 5Steps as a guide to provide direction or the next step in the process. Use it also to track your progress or where you are on the way to solve the problem. When switching to providing relief, the focus should be on reducing the effects of the problem. Understand the difference between providing relief and solving the problem. The relief does not solve the problem because it does not address the cause of the problem. Relief deals with the effects of a problem. This can be what the problem causes, how it is being felt or what it takes away from the people affected. It very easy to succumb to the temptation to solve the problem while providing relief. While we may gain insight into the problem while providing relief, the effort to solve the problem should be done separately. This way, the relief is not diluted or lessen nor the effort to solve the problem be side-tracked.
Providing relief and solving the problem happens over time. It is more so when there is only one person doing both. During this time establish communication between people who have common concerns. This can be between people who are solving the problem and the people providing relief. While providing relief, that may have better insight into the problem and can share that with the people who are solving the problem. However, they must provide this as information and understand that their suggestions are just that.
Providing relief and solving the problem happens over time. It is more so when there is only one person doing both. During this time establish communication between people who have common concerns. This can be between people who are solving the problem and the people providing relief. While providing relief, that may have better insight into the problem and can share that with the people who are solving the problem. However, they must provide this as information and understand that their suggestions are just that.
