Research brief: “Where do SME root causes really live?”
Purpose
Gather evidence showing where underlying root causes typically sit in SMEs (across core building blocks) versus where leaders apply reactive, symptom‑level fixes.
Building blocks
Use these categories for classifying causes and fixes:
Vision / Mission / Purpose Key questions
In studies of recurring SME issues (quality, delays, customer complaints, cost overruns, growth stalls), how often are root causes traced back to each building block above? Are there any quantitative or directional breakdowns (e.g. “most root causes relate to processes and communication”)? Firefighting vs system fixes For the same issues, what typical quick fixes are used (adding people/tools, discounts, overtime, rush shipping, new rules/approvals, price changes)? Which building blocks do these fixes touch (often Products/Services, Cash Flow, or local process patches) compared with where the root causes actually sit (e.g. Systems & Processes, Leadership & Teams, Communication)? Find sources that distinguish events (single incidents), patterns (recurring issues), and system/structure (processes, roles, incentives, information flow). Capture examples where the documented root cause is structural, but management attention remains on events and patterns. Deliverables
Any stats or clear statements on distribution of root causes by building block. 3–5 book‑ready lines such as “Most recurring SME problems originate in process, communication, or leadership, even when they show up as product or cash‑flow issues,” each with a source. 1–2 page case table: SME context, visible symptom, quick fix, mapped root‑cause block, outcome. Reference list with links and 1–2 lines on why each source is relevant.
