Fleetowner 38778 Decision Time
Fleetowner 38778 Decision Time
Fleetowner 38778 Decision Time
Fleetowner 38778 Decision Time
Fleetowner 38778 Decision Time

Decision time? Ask these three questions

Aug. 22, 2019
Focusing on these three questions before making a business decision can pave the way to greater success.

If we’ve learned anything from the Jurassic Park movies, it’s this: Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should.

While you probably aren’t tasked with cloning dinosaurs at work, asking, “Can we? Should we? Will we?” is actually a valuable practice. As a leader in my company, I’ve noticed that focusing on these three questions before making a business decision can pave the way to greater success.

Can we?

This question often arises in research and development. After all, it is exciting to solve a problem. Can we do it? Yes! We can figure it out!

Of course, a simple reflexive answer to a question like “Should we change to an alternative fuel?” must be dissected with follow-up questions: It is physically possible? How much will it cost? How difficult will it be? What are the required resources? Are there policies or regulations to consider? Answers to these inquiries make it easier to address the next question.

Should we?

Let’s say you set out to solve a problem. Will anyone care about or want your solution? Digging deep here reveals whether solving the problem is worthwhile. If you develop a new fuel strategy, will it work? If you come up with a new plan, can you sell it to your boss?

You won’t know until you dive more deeply into what you truly need. You also want to know if the decision or solution you’re betting on represents far more risk than you can or should take on.

Finally, all this consideration could be for naught, depending on the answer to the third question.

Will we?

Is the move you’re contemplating — like switching from diesel to electric vehicles— a high priority? Is it worth the risk? If your organization has the will to make a change, create a new product or offer a new service, it makes more sense to spend time on the “can we” phase. If a new venture won’t even get out of the gate, it’s probably better to spend your resources elsewhere.

About the Author

Joe Thompson | Group President, Roush Products Group

Joe Thompson is group president of Roush Products Group, working within the corporate structure of Roush and overseeing ROUSH CleanTech and ROUSH Performance Products. He is a member of the Roush Enterprise Steering Committee. 

Previously he served as president of ROUSH CleanTech, growing the company from six employees to more than 90. Under Thompson’s leadership, ROUSH CleanTech won numerous quality control and environmental awards, including Supplier of the Year from Blue Bird and a Michigan Green Leader honorable mention. He is a recipient of the 2013 Green Fleet Sustainability All-Star award.

Thompson has worked with Roush since 1996. In his previous appointment as vice president and general manager, he helped establish ROUSH Performance as one of the premier brands in the automotive aftermarket segment.  

Raised in Ohio, he earned a degree in public relations from Ohio University’s Scripps School of Journalism. He lives with his wife and two sons in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Sponsored Recommendations

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

How to Choose the Right Route Planning Solution

This free buyer's guide will help equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to analyze route planning software and vendors in the market and, ultimately, make an informed...

How to Put Your Trucking Data to Work

How fleets can overcome data overload to optimize operations and get ahead.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!