Turning Problems into Solutions: Provide Alternatives, Not Excuses

In the journey of software engineering, there are moments when challenges seem insurmountable. These are the moments that test our problem-solving skills, resilience, and creativity. However, the way we approach these challenges can make all the difference. Instead of offering excuses, providing viable alternatives can transform a roadblock into a learning opportunity.

The Importance of Mindset

A crucial aspect of being a successful software engineer is adopting a proactive mindset. When faced with a problem, it's easy to resort to excuses:

• "The deadline is too tight."
• "The technology is too complex."
• "The requirements are unclear."

These statements, while potentially true, don't contribute to progress. Instead, they create a culture of stagnation. A proactive mindset shifts the focus from what can't be done to what can be explored.

           ↑ Increase
       +--------------------+        
       |       +Solutions   |        
       |       +Solutions   |        
       |       +Solutions   |        
       |       +Solutions   |        +----------+
       |       +Solutions   |        | -Problems|
       |       +Solutions   |        | -Problems|
       |       +Solutions   |        | -Problems|
       |       +Solutions   |        | -Problems|
       +--------------------+        +----------+
                                      ↓ Decrease

Analyzing the Situation

When you encounter a problem, start by analyzing the situation thoroughly. Here are some steps to guide you:

• Understand the Problem: Take the time to fully understand the problem. Break it down into smaller, manageable parts.
• Identify Constraints: Recognize the constraints you are working within, whether they are time, resources, or technical limitations.
• Explore Alternatives: Brainstorm possible solutions. Think outside the box and consider unconventional approaches.

Simple Example Scenarios

Obviously, these examples are quite simple, but they help us get a clear idea of what the correct mindset should be.

Tight Deadlines

• Situation: The client requests a new feature, but the deadline is tight.
• Response with Excuses: "We can't meet this deadline. It's impossible."
• Response with Options: "Meeting this deadline is challenging, but we can prioritize the core functionality and add additional features in the next iteration. Alternatively, we can extend the deadline by a week to deliver the complete feature set."

Technical Limitations

• Situation: A particular technology doesn't support a requested feature.
• Response with Excuses: "This technology doesn't support that feature. We can't do it."
• Response with Options: "While this technology doesn't support the feature directly, we can use a workaround or integrate another tool that provides the required functionality."

By providing these alternatives, you are not only demonstrating a solution-oriented mindset but also encouraging a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.

Beyond Alternatives and Excuses

Providing alternatives, not excuses, is more than just offering solutions. It's about how you handle issues or problems.

At the beginning of my career, I was one of those people who, these days, I wouldn't be happy to work with. I was the I told you so guy. I remember approaching the team and mentioning phrases that no one wanted to hear. My boss would say, I don't want you to bring me a problem or say there is a problem when it's clear there is one. I want you to bring possible solutions.

In many cases, I knew we had a problem, and I had possible solutions or something to try, but my communication always started with the problem and not with the solutions. The same principle applies here. We should focus on presenting potential solutions first and foremost.

My great friend Patrick D'appollonio , one of the best engineers I have known and from whom I have the fortune to learn, has always told me: If you come with problems, at least bring a solution. This shows that you are interested in solving the problems and not just criticizing or pointing out something obvious! This advice has stayed with me throughout my career, reinforcing the importance of being proactive and solution-oriented.

I Don't Know

The main idea behind this concept is not to have an answer or proposal for every situation or question immediately. As we often hear, it's okay to say I don't know, but this should be followed with but I will figure it out. The key is to actively involve yourself in the process of finding a solution. Saying you'll figure it out means committing to understanding the problem, researching possible solutions, and engaging with your team to develop and propose viable options.

Relating to the Broken Windows Theory

In my previous article on the Broken Windows theory, we discussed the importance of maintaining quality and addressing small issues before they escalate. This concept ties closely to the mindset of providing alternatives and not excuses. Both approaches emphasize the importance of proactive problem-solving and a commitment to continuous improvement.

When we focus on solutions rather than excuses, we prevent small issues from becoming major problems. Just as the Broken Windows theory suggests that fixing minor issues can prevent larger ones, providing viable alternatives ensures that we address challenges head-on and maintain the integrity of our work. For example, giving excuses like I will revisit this later without the commitment to actually do it can lead to accumulated technical debt. By providing solutions and following through, we maintain a higher standard of quality and reliability in our projects.

Communication is Key

Effective communication is vital when presenting alternatives. Here’s how to ensure your suggestions are well-received:

• Be Clear and Concise: Clearly articulate the problem and your proposed solutions.
• Provide Evidence: Back up your suggestions with data or examples from past experiences.
• Be Open to Feedback: Encourage feedback and be prepared to iterate on your solutions based on input from others.

Building a Resilient Team

As a senior engineer or team leader, it's important to foster an environment where team members feel empowered to suggest alternatives. Encourage open discussions, celebrate innovative ideas, and provide constructive feedback. This not only builds a resilient team but also instills a problem-solving mindset in junior engineers.

Conclusion

In software engineering, challenges are inevitable. However, the way we respond to these challenges defines our growth and success. By providing alternatives instead of excuses, we pave the way for innovation, learning, and progress. Let’s commit to being solution-oriented, proactive, and collaborative in our approach.

Remember, the next time you face a daunting task, think of alternatives. Your proactive approach could be the catalyst for a breakthrough solution.