Edward manages a delivery company and has noticed that the delivery drivers do not clean out the trucks at the end of the day. Cleaning out the trucks is one of the drivers’ responsibilities.
How should Edward approach this problem?
A) ?Create new rewards and punishments related to cleaning the trucks.
B) ?Investigate the reasons why the drivers are not cleaning the trucks.
C) ?Assign the task of cleaning the trucks to employees that are not drivers.
D) ?Decide that dirty trucks are not really a big deal to the company.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is:
B) Investigate the reasons why the drivers are not cleaning the trucks.
Explanation:
Edward’s first step in solving the problem should be understanding why the drivers are neglecting to clean the trucks. Investigating the root cause will help him implement an effective and sustainable solution rather than just enforcing rules without addressing the underlying issues.
There are several possible reasons why drivers might not be cleaning the trucks:
- Lack of Time – If the drivers have long shifts or tight schedules, they might feel too exhausted to clean the trucks at the end of the day.
- Unclear Expectations – The drivers might not fully understand that cleaning is part of their responsibilities, or they might not know how thoroughly they are expected to clean.
- Insufficient Resources – There might not be proper cleaning supplies or designated cleaning areas, making it inconvenient for drivers to complete the task.
- Lack of Accountability – If there are no checks in place, drivers might assume that someone else will handle the cleaning or that it is not a priority.
Once Edward investigates and understands the cause, he can implement a targeted solution. If drivers are too busy, he might adjust schedules to allocate time for cleaning. If expectations are unclear, he could reinforce policies through training or meetings. If resources are lacking, providing better cleaning supplies or a structured cleaning routine would help.
Jumping straight to punishments (Option A) might create resentment without fixing the real issue. Assigning the task to others (Option C) would increase costs unnecessarily. Ignoring the problem (Option D) could harm the company’s reputation and efficiency.
By investigating first, Edward ensures that any actions he takes will be practical, fair, and effective.
Image Description:
A frustrated delivery manager (Edward) stands in front of several dirty delivery trucks in a warehouse. Delivery drivers in uniforms are walking away, looking tired or unaware of the issue. Cleaning supplies sit unused nearby. The setting includes a busy logistics environment with packages and delivery signs in the background.