Imagine your company is faced with a seemingly unsolvable problem in an important project. Time is pressing, resources are scarce and stakeholder expectations are high. At the same time Consultsantshow you can help your customers can provide the best possible support in such critical situations. How do you manage to maintain an overview in such situations and find a structured solution? Here comes QHAR as a consulting method into play. This method provides a clear structure for systematically overcoming complex challenges. In this article, both companies and their consultant:insidehow the QHAR principle works and how you can apply it successfully in your projects.
What is the QHAR principle?
QHAR stands for Question, Hypothesis, Analysis and Resources.
These four steps enable a systematic approach to problem solving:
Question:
Ask a precise and relevant question that clearly defines the problem or need.
Hypothesis (hypothesis):
Develop possible explanations or answers to the question posed.
Analysis:
Check the hypotheses through targeted analyses and collect relevant data.
Resources:
Identify the necessary resources to perform the analyses and implement solutions.
The application of the QHAR method in practice
- Formulating the question
A well-formulated question is the key to the success of the QHAR principle. It should be open, specific and relevant. Use methods such as the “Question Burst” to develop effective questions. - Developing the hypotheses
Hypotheses should be formulated clearly and observably. Distinguish between assumptions and actions. An example: “Due to heavy rainfall, the bus is late today, which leads to a late arrival at work.” - Carrying out the analysis
Analyses can vary in complexity, from simple data analyses to elaborate expert discussions. It is important to choose the right types of analysis and avoid potential pitfalls such as misleading data or biased examples. - Identification of resources
Determine the resources required to carry out the analyses and implement measures. This can be time, money, expertise or special tools.
Advantages of the QHAR principle
The QHAR principle offers numerous advantages:
Structured problem solving:
The clear division into four steps makes the problem-solving process clear and comprehensible.
Efficiency:
The method enables targeted and efficient processing of consulting projects.
Flexibility:
The consulting method is adaptable and can be applied in different contexts and industries.
Advantages of the QHAR principle in various industries
The QHAR method is not limited to the consulting industry. It can be used in various industries to solve complex problems in a structured way and make better decisions.
Case study 1: Healthcare
Patient care in a large hospital is to be improved. The challenge is to reduce errors and increase efficiency.
Question:
How can patient care be improved?
Hypothesis:
The introduction of a new electronic healthcare system can reduce errors and increase efficiency.
Analysis:
Examination of the current error rate, comparison with other hospitals and staff survey.
Resources:
IT infrastructure, training for staff and time for implementation.
Case study 2: Production
A medium-sized production company is faced with the challenge of reducing production costs in order to remain competitive.
Question:
How can production costs be reduced?
Hypothesis:
By automating certain processes, costs can be reduced and production speed increased.
Analysis:
Analysis of current production processes, calculation of savings through automation and benchmarking with other companies.
Resources:
Investment in automation technology, training and time for the changeover.
Case study 3: Optimizing the supply chain
A consulting firm was commissioned to optimize the supply chain of a large retail company. The challenge was to shorten delivery times and reduce stock levels.
Question:
How can delivery times be shortened and stock levels reduced?
Hypothesis:
One possible hypothesis was that delivery times could be shortened through better coordination with suppliers.
Action:
Measures have been taken to improve communication and collaboration with suppliers, including regular meetings and the introduction of a digital communication system.
Result:
Delivery times were reduced by 20% and stock levels were cut by 15%.
Success factors in the application of the QHAR principle
Precise question
A clearly defined question lays the foundation for the entire process. Invest enough time in formulating the question.
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Realistic hypotheses
Make sure that your hypotheses are based on realistic assumptions and are specific enough to be tested. -
Comprehensive analysis
Use a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis methods to test your hypotheses and achieve valid results. -
Effective use of resources
Plan the use of resources carefully and ensure that you have the necessary means available to carry out your analyses and implement measures. -
Continuous review
Review and validate your results regularly to ensure that your measures are having the desired effect.
The QHAR principle is an extremely effective tool for solving complex problems in a structured and efficient manner, both in consulting and in various areas of the company. Thanks to the clear structure and systematic approach, projects can be implemented in a targeted and successful manner.
Whether in healthcare or production optimization – the QHAR method helps to overcome challenges and achieve sustainable results.
To learn more about other successful consulting methods, visit our
blog post on successful consulting approaches
.
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