You think you have an answer, but other people discover evidence that contradicts your theory.

Every continuous improvement project should start with data collection. Unfortunately, when that data is collected with a notion of how the results should look, not surprisingly, the results often come out as they are expected to. It is easy to introduce bias into a data collection effort, if you are not careful.

Problem

You think you have an answer, but other people discover evidence that contradicts your theory.

How this affects you

You complete a thorough investigation, only to be surprised, and a little embarrassed, when someone presents opposing data or a conflicting interpretation of the facts.

Action to Take

Take a step back and think about whether you ever see evidence that contradicts what you want. It is easy to see only what supports your theory while discounting any data that opposes your viewpoint.

Try to find as many pieces of information as you can to support and oppose your views. You may not be able to find any opposition data; sometimes your theory will be right on the money. In most cases, though, you will find plenty of information that can contradict your theory. If you have trouble seeing both sides, find someone who can collect opposing evidence for you. This works best when that person is not vested in a specific outcome.

Why this works

The Why this Works section is only available in print copies of Whaddaya Mean I Gotta Be Lean?