The 4-letter RAST to Solving Any Problem

In our management and sales courses, we use this famous 4-Step RAST Model to teach our trainees in problem solving. I shall use the case of Getting Your Team to Achieve Their Goals as an example:

Step 1: Recognize the Problem

Recognize that there is a problem, and don't be egoistic or pretend that there is no problem.  The problem here is that our team is not achieving the goals, and we must not accept this as normal but recognize this as a problem.

Step 2: Actual Reasons for the Problem

We need to find out the Actual reasons for the problem, and not be blinded by some non reasons like opinions and 'everyone is doing this' type of excuse.  We must be thoroughly objective in finding out the actual reasons, and not be swayed by some subjective hearsay.  In this case study, we find out that the actual reason for the team not achieving their goals is a lack of competency and confidence.

Step 3: Solutions for the Problem

With the actual reasons out, we can pinpoint the exact solutions for the problem, which in this case would be training on soft and hard skills so as to beef up our team's lack of competency and confidence.

Step 4: Take Action Immediately

Yes, for solutions to work we must take action immediately or it will remain forever as a plan.  In fact, many managers tell us that the number one factor contributing to their lack of success is procrastination.  They feel that if they had taken action immediately, they would have solve the problem long ago.  As what Nike says, Just Do It!

So my friend, the next time you find yourself stuck in a problem, use the RAST model: Recognize the problem, Actual Reasons for the problem, Solutions for the problem and Take action immediately.

By Andy Ng, Chief Trainer Coach at Asia Trainers, details at here.