So you’ve got a problem. It’s in the issuelog. You have gathered the top subject matter experts to help you get this project over the hurdle.
How do you find the answer?
Sometimes the solution to a problem is right in front of you. There is only one solution to a problem. That approach will get you to where you need to be. The project can continue.
But that’s not always the case.
This article will share a secret weapon that can improve problem solving in project management. It doesn’t require you to do anything else to benefit from it.

Two ways to solve tricky project problems
Your secret weapon for problem solving: Lessons learned Login to review the lessons learned
2. Find relevant information
3. Take the lessons learned information and use it
You can also use other sources of information

Capturing lessons learned
Moving beyond the lessons learned

I have been involved in many projects that turned out to be simple problems. Unpicking one led me to another. Can you relate?
This is especially true for complex projects or processes with many moving parts and multiple stakeholders. It can be difficult for subject matter experts to assess the impact of their solution on other departments and downstream processes in these situations.
Many knowledge workers don’t have an in-depth working knowledge of all aspects of the business. Why would they? This is not their job. It can be difficult to see the bigger picture and solve tricky problems.
Two ways to solve tricky project problems
How can you overcome these obstacles? There are two ways to solve the big, complex problems you face in a project: one that touches multiple business areas and the other that focuses on one. These approaches can be used even for small problems.
Option 1: Get help from a business analyst to understand the operational processes and find a solution that addresses the entire problem.
Option 2: Solve the problem as best you can. Call insubject matter experts if necessary and test your solution before you act.
Unfortunately, many businesses lack the necessary skills to be a BA. Experiential BAs are rare and highly valuable. ).
As the project manager, you have the option of solving the problem yourself.
Your secret weapon for problem solving: Lessons learned
Here’s the secret: I will show you how to use your lessons learned log to find potential solutions.
Your log of lessons learned contains so much valuable information. It’s already there, so you don’t need to add anything. It’s also packed with tips and tricks to help you solve problems.
Here are some ways to use project management lessons learned information to improve the project. This includes coming up with solutions for problems that you don’t see clearly and deciding which route to take.
1. Reassess the lessons learned log
Once you have identified a problem, scan quickly through the lessons learned log and minutes from lessons learned meetings to see if it has been encountered before.
You may also want to review the risk and issue logs while you are reviewing project documentation.
This should be your first step when someone asks you a question or flags a problem. This could be because you or someone on your team has already identified the problem and have a plan in place to address it.
2. Find relevant information
Ensure you look through your project management documentation for pertinent information, contacts, facts and data sources.