How can you involve your research team in decision-making and problem-solving processes?

In order that the team really understands context and the challenges associated with decision making in the research process, as a leader help the teams appreciate what is the purpose or business/strategic objective which the solution helps address. The definition of the problem and the desired outcome will definitely help set the team on the path that helps address the business needs that requested the support of the team in the first place. This way the research team will be more holistically involved in the research process and will be motivated in its own way to help the organization address the business needs effectively than when it is not aware of the context and the end purpose. The team will contribute above expectations.

On the softer side of things, a team leader should only involve team members in decision making if they are truly willing and able to take on recommendations, input and feedback. Superficial engagements can create resentment and weaken cohesion within the team. However, once you've truly created a great space for team plays, you'll find that it will be easy to solicit for and gain input. It is your job as a Team Leader to be as well informed as possible about what it is you want to achieve so that you can shape discussions appropriate. So read, read, read and learn.

An excellent way to collect feedback might be one of one sessions. This ensures that you hear back from all your members and they don't just respond to group think. However, if anonymity is a bonus, then go ahead and use traditional survey tools and suggestion boxes. Be sure to set deadlines for when you would like returns on requests for input and remind your team frequently, especially in high pressure environments.

It might be important to let your M&E lead LEAD on this section. Making the decision about what options to take will guide the rest of your research journey and you need someone with the necessary skills to guide this process. The M&E lead will also be best placed to help you decide which tool to use and guide its application within the team. Research is a wonky process. Things hardly ever go to plan. As such, have a plan B or even C if time and money allow in place for your critical milestones. In the event that something doesn't go as planned, you have something to fall back on. Be sure to build these contingency plans into your budget and make allowances in terms of time as well.

It is super important to have a lead on every project. Collaboration and inclusion are excellent, but the someone must call the shots. I led a small research team on a project once. It worked out so that mid way through the research field work, I had to travel and leave the rest of the team on the ground. While I was away, they ran into some unforeseen technical problems. I had not assigned a lead and as a result, they had trouble coming to a decision on how to solve the problem. This was brought up in the post research evaluation meeting and proved to be a valuable lesson for me. Learn to balance inclusion with decisiveness.

When it's over, the data has been collected, the policy brief has been written and shared, boxes stacked high with interviews have been archived, take your team away for some down time. In a relaxed setting (preferably with food!) discuss how the research went and learn from each other. Be open to criticism and don't shy away from giving some honest but polite feedback yourself.