The boss is relying on you to make some major improvements. So you do the usual. You come up with a plan and put a team together to get it done. You are a good leader and you know how to inspire the team to action. Everyone is full of energy and commitment at the beginning; success seems just a matter of formality. Then, as you begin to work the plan, things happen; the people on your team are burdened with unrelated tasks, priorities seem to be shifting, the team loses focus. As time goes by, the energy and commitment fades and you begin to doubt your success. Sleepless nights follow.
It doesn’t have to be this way. A simple method can get your team off to a good start and keep you on target until the goal is achieved. This simple method is often called "Catchball". Toyota and other successful companies use "Catchball" to create and manage their improvement plans.
How it Works
- Leaders explain what needs to be done.
- Team members, made up of the people closest to the work to be improved, are asked to put a plan together to make it happen.
- Ideas are tossed back in forth. Some serious and open debate takes place.
- Finally, the team agrees on a "real" plan. The plan includes assignments with each team member taking responsibility for part of the plan.
- Everyone signs off to signify their commitment.
- As the team works the plan, a continuing dialogue takes place. "Are we on track? Do we have the time and other resources required? What are we learning that needs to be incorporated into the plan?" Plenty of changes are made as a result of this dialogue.
- The leader monitors it all and is responsible for the outcome. The leader resolves confusion and helps at key points.
- Even with all of the things that happen along the way, the constant review and discussion keeps the team on target. Ultimately the goals are accomplished.
Why does this method work so well?
- Those closest to the work are in the best position to put a realistic plan together.
- If they create their own plan they take ownership.
- The continuing dialogue results in adjustments to the plan that ensure "obstacles" do not become "excuses".
Take our advice and remember the "Catchball" method the next time the boss is relying on you to make it happen . You’ll sleep easier.
