Brian's Blog

items I see across my tribes

Sufficient Solutions

May 20
by briancarter 20. May 2009 07:14

SuperStock_1525R-139933 I too find myself looking for the best solution.  Many times I spend too much time searching and researching the problem space to find a better one.  In research and projects, the element of time helps me from spinning and accept the sufficient solution that meets the current needs.

Often I find a better solution, but it requires more resources to complete.  It is of course better today, for tomorrow I may find an even better one.  The argument is that if the investment is made today, it will save resources later.  I too face this dilemma; should I just deliver what's required today?  How do I know it will save me resources down the road?  Am I working myself into a corner by accepting the sufficient solution?

With time such a factor for me during this time of my life, I’ve been forced to weight the risks and choose less optimal solutions so I can meet delivery dates.  I find that by documenting the options with a pro/cons list with risks, I can make a decision and revisit my decision when time permits.  Funny thing, after delivery I know more about the given problem and often find a better way.  Like many things, version 3 shines; the third time around; gifting the experienced and the explorer that sees a problem through with the reward of insight.

Thank You for listening.

Categories: Tribes


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The opinions, thoughts, and comments made in these blog posts are solely my own (unless otherwise stated). They do not reflect the opinions, thoughts or practices of my employer, my universities, my family, or anyone else. Also, I retain the right to change my mind about anything I publish here without having to go back and edit posts that occurred in the past. 

These are my opinions, or just as likely, someone else's opinions that I leveraged for my own.