Joy Muehlenbein, Web Producer

Another web spun by Joy Muehlenbein

Problem Solving 101
When undertaking any media project, I view myself as a problem-solver. You have a need (or you wouldn't be here reading this). Unfulfilled, that need represents a problem. My goal is to help you solve that problem through the effective use of communication and technology.

Define the problem.
Defining anything requires understanding it. Step one, then, is to gain a clear understanding of your communication needs. What do you hope to accomplish? With whom do you wish to communicate? What effects or results will define "success"? The more clarity we can achieve in this phase, the better.

Generate possible solutions.
Once we know the what and the who, step two is to begin looking at out the how. How will we fulfill your needs and achieve our goal(s)? If past efforts have been made to achieve similar goals, reflecting on the outcomes can provide valuable insights. What was effective? What aspects were less effective? This is the time to brainstorm, to explore potential means to accomplish our goal(s).

Choose an alternative.
A list of possible solutions, however many, does not a problem solve. Step three is selecting a course of action. Understanding that no solution is perfect, I will do my best to advise you of the advantages and disadvantages of each potential solution. My goal is to help you make an informed decision.

Prepare for implementation.
In preparation of putting our chosen course of action into effect, I will carry out step four—planning. I believe in the "rule of tens," which proposes each hour of planning saves 10 hours of production and 100 hours of post-production troubleshooting. My goal in this phase is to ensure all parties are clear about what is expected (and when) prior to implementation.

Implement the plan.
In step five, the plan is implemented. I will provide status reports throughout this phase.

Review the results.
Often neglected, this final step is an essential part of the process! Was the initiative a success? If not, what changes are needed? If so, are there new goals we can begin working toward? And the cycle begins again.

Communication
Effective communication does not take place in a vacuum. At least two parties—sender and receiver—are always involved. My job is to use the tools of communication and technology to bring these parties together in a way that benefits all. In doing so, I keep several rules of thumb in mind:

A given message will be taken seriously only when it is considered to be credible.
Credibility is fostered by consistency and accuracy.
Be consistent. Be accurate.
Credibility is the seed from which trust grows.
Trust is earned through honesty and reliability.
Be honest. Be reliable.
Know how the success of any undertaking will be measured. This determines the goal.
Be ever mindful of the goal and the audience.
Attention to detail is important, but only insofar as it makes sense within the context of the "big picture."
Keep it simple. Every element should have a purpose.
Be concise.
Learn from mistakes.
Give credit where credit is due.
Never assume anything.

Up to top