Tired of dealing with issues you don't have time for?

Dale Wolfenbarger • May 5, 2025

Identifying the source of the issues

Breaking the Cycle: Addressing Recurring Issues for Long-Term Success

Sometimes, the hardest part of dealing with a problem is simply knowing where to start. If it’s the first time the issue has occurred, the solution might be straightforward—identify the specific problem, resolve it, and move on. But what about the challenges that keep coming back? Are they quietly eroding your efficiency and impacting the bottom line?

One of the toughest struggles I’ve faced firsthand is feeling overwhelmed by recurring issues, with no time to investigate their real root cause. Superficial fixes may keep things moving for the moment, but without addressing the deeper layers, the same problems resurface—again and again.



Digging Deeper: Finding the Real Root Cause

Identifying the true origin of an issue requires persistence. The key is to keep asking why until you reach an answer that’s beyond your control or impossible to resolve—that’s when you fully understand the scope of the problem. More often than not, root causes have multiple layers of failure that must be tackled collectively to prevent recurring disruptions.

However, solving issues at their core requires time and focus—luxuries that managers often struggle to find in the chaos of daily operations. Without a structured approach, these persistent problems can consume your time, drain resources, and hinder progress.


Strategies for Sustainable Resolution

To prevent recurring challenges from overtaking your workflow, you must be intentional about setting aside time for problem-solving. Here are a few strategies to help:

  • Dedicate an Internal Resource – Assign a team member to focus on identifying and addressing recurring issues. Ensure they have the authority to implement changes, but be mindful not to overload an already stretched employee—otherwise, the initiative may lack the attention needed to drive real improvement.
  • Prioritize Root Cause Resolution – Make this process a priority above the daily noise. While delegation can be difficult, shifting operational distractions to others allows you to focus on process improvements. This was a crucial step in my journey as an MSP, and while challenging, it ultimately led to lasting efficiency gains.
  • Leverage Continuous Improvement Efforts – Depending on the size of your organization, a structured approach like a continuous improvement committee may be beneficial. A group of dedicated individuals can drive process enhancements, ensuring the entire organization benefits from ongoing refinements.
  • Partner with Experts – If identifying and resolving root causes seems overwhelming, engaging with an experienced partner can be a game-changer. At Elite Technical Services, we specialize in guiding businesses through this journey—helping leaders uncover inefficiencies, implement strategic solutions, and build sustainable success.


Final Thoughts

Recurring issues will always exist, but with the right approach, they don’t have to define your organization. By dedicating time, resources, and strategic focus to root cause resolution, businesses can break free from repetitive frustrations and drive meaningful progress.

If you’re ready to turn problems into opportunities for growth, let’s start the conversation.