I often find that the two parties aren't working off the same set of parameters or understanding of the issue/problem.
As the Engineering Manager, I always review the two arguments myself and determine what the differences are.
1. Do they understand the scope of work?
2. Are they both meeting the requirements/criteria/codes/standards that have been set out for the scope of work?
3. What are their assumptions?
a. Do the assumptions bound the problem/issue presented in the scope of work?
b. Are the assumptions reasonable?
4. What are the fundamental differences in the parameters used in their determinations?
a. Validate parameters used in the evaluations.
5. What is the difference in technical approach?
a. Are these approaches valid?
I always want to know that the basics are correct/reasonable (points 1 through 4). I don't accept compromise as an acceptable management method in engineering or managing technical conflict when these items are potentially compromised.
Can there be alternative approaches that meet technical veracity? Absolutely. This is where it is very difficult to find consensus amongst the parties. This is where ego can play a role in coming to a common approach that meets the needs of the evaluation.
As long as these discussions stay professional where personal attacks are not permitted, then a solution should be achievable.
If the same problems arise with the same individuals on a constant basis, i.e., a turf war, then this is a personnel problem that must be dealt with.
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Christine Linden P.E., M.ASCE
Engineering Division Manager
Frontier-Kemper Constructors, Inc.
Evansville IN
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-03-2024 12:12 PM
From: William McAnally
Subject: How can we diminish internal turf battles and the harm they cause?
Annete Simmons once described turf battles as, "What's mine is mine, what's yours is questionable." Sometimes defined as internal competition over an area of business or resources, turf battles damage work relationships and reduce an organization's effectiveness.
What strategies have you seen used to overcome these situations? How successful were they?
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William McAnally Ph.D., P.E., BC.CE, BC.NE, F.ASCE
ENGINEER
Columbus MS
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