How can Film Production team managers train effective problem solvers?

2 Generate solutions

Once you have identified the problem, you can brainstorm possible solutions with your team. You can use techniques such as Brainstorming, Brainwriting, or SCAMPER to encourage divergent thinking and generate multiple ideas. You can also involve other stakeholders, such as clients, suppliers, or experts, to get different perspectives and insights. The key is to create a safe and supportive environment where everyone can share their thoughts without fear of criticism or rejection.

3 Evaluate solutions

After generating solutions, you need to evaluate them based on their feasibility, effectiveness, and suitability. You can use tools such as the Pros and Cons List, the Decision Matrix, or the SWOT Analysis to help you compare and rank the solutions. You can also test the solutions on a small scale or in a simulated scenario to see how they work in practice. The goal is to select the best solution that meets your objectives, criteria, and constraints.

4 Implement solutions

The final step is to implement the chosen solution and monitor its results. You need to plan the actions, resources, roles, and timelines for the implementation. You also need to communicate the solution to your team and other stakeholders, and get their buy-in and feedback. You need to track the progress, outcomes, and impacts of the solution, and measure its success against your goals. You also need to document the process, learn from the experience, and celebrate the achievements.

5 Develop skills

To train effective problem solvers, you also need to develop their skills and competencies. You can provide them with training, coaching, mentoring, or feedback to help them improve their critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, and self-management skills. You can also create opportunities for them to apply their skills in different situations, challenges, or projects. You can also recognize and reward their efforts, contributions, and results.

6 Promote culture

Finally, to train effective problem solvers, you need to promote a culture of problem solving in your film production team. You can do this by setting clear expectations, goals, and standards for problem solving. You can also encourage a growth mindset, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. You can also foster a sense of ownership, empowerment, and accountability among your team members. You can also model and demonstrate problem solving behaviors and practices yourself.