Basics

Fundamentals of Management and how it works.

Published

3 years ago

December 2, 2021

Management is present in all aspects of life; in a company, factory, ministry, or hospital, also within the family, and in all countries where there is an economic activity, there is management. In other words, for any activity, there must be an administrator for it, so the health activity must have a health administration, and the educational activity must have an educational administration, thus if an organization cannot apply the principles of management, it will not achieve its goals. Every organization has had a goal since its establishment, and management seeks to achieve this goal.

What is management?

Management is an activity practiced by every manager at all levels. This activity aims to optimize the use of both material and human resources that exist in the facility in order to achieve the objectives set for it with the maximum possible efficiency and at the lowest cost.

What is the history of management and how did it develop?

Before the beginning of the twentieth century, there were no basic principles of management, however, it was based on the principle of trial and error and reliance on personal experience (the personal experience of the decision-maker) although those who make the decision are assistants to the manager and may participate with them in decision-making, the president or manager is the one who has the right to make a decision, and at this stage managers relied on personal experience based on the trial and error approach.

Since 1900, the beginning of the twentieth century, with the tremendous economic, political, social, and technological progress, there has become an awareness of the threat of the administration’s reliance on trial and error, and the trial and error method has become a great risk and must have a scientific basis.

Stages of management development:

Management today is not the same as it was decades ago. There has been a great development in it. The management that is being studied and practiced today is not the same that was taught twenty years ago.

The stage of scientific management (1900-1930):

At the beginning of the twentieth century, this stage began to appear in the United States in 1900, and it was called the “Scientific Management”. It was established by a group of practitioners who collected all the successful practices related to the trial and error stage then laid down a set of principles and scientific foundations for management with the goal of increasing production and increasing productivity and thus increase profits and thus increase the employees’ share of profits.

They set a strict management system based on a set of basic principles for each organization that has specific goals during a certain period of time. The administration was contractual. There was no labor law, also there was no system that protected the rights of workers or regulations specifying their rights and responsibilities.

This stage began in the United States then transferred to France and then to Europe, still and all, the United States is the leading country in management.

The (hire and fire) model which set specific goals for the individual, was for evaluating the employee’s performance. That model was simple that the company announces jobs and a number of applicants apply for it. The selected applicant signs a contract that is renewed annually three months before its expiry with the consent of the two parties, and upon renewal, either an increase or a decrease in salary or termination of the contract. This system lasted for 30 years and productivity increased as well as production and profits which increased wages and bonuses.

The stage of human relations (1930-1950):

At the end of the twenties in 1927, a great administrative revolution occurred among management society.

The supporters of this approach see that scientific management is not scientific because it was concerned with one element, which is work and neglected the most important element, which is the human resource. Thus, they should study the human being as a valuable resource and know his needs and motives in addition to knowing how management works to meet these needs and to ignite these motives through conducting an applied study to find out what is meant by human relations.

• A research team conducted an experiment in a factory for electrical appliances in the city of Thoron. The experimental approach was based on three stages using the experimental method:

Stage (1) describes the current situation (portraying the situation).

Stage (2) assessment of the situation (determining right and wrong).

Stage (3) Suggestions of solutions.

The team chose a working place with a thousand workers, then assessed the situation in terms of lighting, ventilation, supervision, hygiene, and the business model used inside the factory, however, they found many negative aspects. After that, they set up a new place for the experiment avoiding all negative aspects which were detected in the evaluation, then they measured and compared the productivity in the old and the new place.

They found that the changes that the worker felt in the new clean and organized place, helped to increase productivity, so they took care of workers’ transportation and health care (the health insurance system), social (social service office), working women (nurseries) and other humanitarian matters Which had the effect of increasing production.

This stage reached stability in productivity followed by an observable decrease when the third stage began.

The stage of the integrated managerial process (1950-till now):

The principles of this stage have been set to manage both material human elements through setting a set of basics for management to apply them in order to create a balance between material and human resources.

Integrated management process is an activity practiced by every president or manager at all levels, and this activity aims at the optimal use of both material and human resources that exist in any of the organizations in order to enable it to achieve the objectives set for it with the largest possible capacity at the lowest possible costs.

Conclusion:

The first stage: concerned with the optimal use of material resources and neglected the human element.

The second stage: focused on the human element at the expense of physical resources.

The third stage: The administrative process concerned itself with balancing and reaching the optimum use of both human and material resources and at the same time.

Management functions:

Most management experts agree that there are five basic functions of management, which are:

Planning.
Organizing.
Developing technical and administrative competencies.
Guidance and supervision (administrative leadership).
Monitoring, follow-up and performance appraisal.

There are other functions that are considered functions of the organization or the facility:

Production.
Marketing.
Financing.
Human Resources management.
Procurement.
Warehouse management.
Public Relations.

What are the organization’s goals?

Increasing sales.
Increasing profits.
Supporting the financial status.
Expanding the company’s market share.
Supporting the competitive position.
Production development.

Qualities of the manager:

The necessity of comprehensive knowledge of all principles and assets of management, bearing in mind that the higher the administrative ladder from the bottom to the top, this leads to an increase in administrative work and a decrease in technical work.
That the manager is able to transfer that scientific knowledge about management to the reality of actual practical application in all management situations that the manager is exposed to.
The need for this manager to be characterized by a set of characteristics and personal traits that qualify him to occupy this leadership position.

Quantitative management approach:

A group of mathematicians, statisticians, and operations research scientists criticized the administrative process and set mathematical and statistical rules and foundations for decision-making that give predictions for the future, which are data in the past and present to predict the future through mathematical equations.

This approach concluded that the administration should not be traditional, that mathematical and statistical methods should be used to make the most appropriate decision with the greatest return and the lowest cost.

The quantitative approach began in 1965, and it grew and spread due to the development of computers, which greatly helped to collect, record, and arrange data to facilitate administrative processes.

The behavioral approach:

From 1965 until now, a new approach appeared, called the “Behavioral Approach” in management. It began studying human behavior and is divided into three basic sciences:

Psychology.
Sociology.
Anthropology.

Behavioral sciences reflected on management, and there was a kind of integration between studying management and the human being along with analyzing the behavior of individuals with the aim of developing and refining their behavior which is the main goal of studying behavioral sciences and their impact on management.

Operations research:

This approach arose in the army in World War I in 1914. It is based on that any decision taken must use mathematical, computational, and statistical methods, for example (PERT model). It started by collecting data from World War I in 1914 until 1926 to analyze the results of it through mathematical methods.

The United States of America was the first to apply operations research in business, hence developing an operations research approach in management.

Modern trends in management:

Total quality management
Crisis management
Conflict management
Transparency
Accountability
Administrative Empowerment
Management Governance
Globalization and future challenges
Administrative Re-engineering
Innovation and knowledge management
Strategic Management
Learning organizations
Self-managed work teams.

Basics

The Power of Digging Deeper: Unraveling Problems with Root Cause Analysis

Published

1 year ago

August 17, 2023

Dr. Mahmoud Elhalabi

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of providing quick-fix solutions to problems without truly understanding their underlying causes. But what if I told you there’s a powerful tool that can help you cut through the surface-level issues and get to the root of the problem?

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a systematic approach that enables you to dig deeper and unravel the complex web of factors that contribute to a problem. By identifying the underlying causes, RCA empowers you to implement targeted and effective solutions that address the root of the issue, rather than just treating the symptoms.

Whether you’re a business owner looking to eliminate recurring problems or an individual striving for personal growth, mastering the art of RCA can be a game-changer.

In this article, we will explore the power of digging deeper through Root Cause Analysis and how it can transform the way you approach and solve problems. Get ready to unlock the secrets to lasting solutions and uncover the true power of RCA.

What is Root Cause Analysis?

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a structured method used to identify the underlying causes of problems or incidents. It involves a comprehensive investigation into the factors that contributed to the issue, aiming to uncover the root cause rather than simply addressing the symptoms. By understanding the root cause, you gain valuable insights that enable you to implement effective solutions and prevent the problem from recurring.

RCA is commonly used in various fields, including business, engineering, healthcare, and quality management. It helps organizations and individuals examine their processes, systems, and behaviors to identify areas for improvement. By adopting a systematic and analytical approach, RCA provides a solid foundation for problem-solving and decision-making.

The Importance of Root Cause Analysis

Root Cause Analysis is essential for effective problem-solving and decision-making. It goes beyond surface-level solutions and helps you understand the underlying factors that contribute to a problem. By addressing the root cause, you can prevent the problem from recurring, saving time, resources, and frustration.

One of the key benefits of RCA is its ability to eliminate guesswork. It provides a structured framework that guides your investigation, ensuring that you consider all relevant factors and collect the necessary data. This systematic approach helps you avoid jumping to conclusions or implementing ineffective solutions.

RCA also encourages a proactive mindset. Instead of treating problems as isolated incidents, it encourages you to view them as opportunities for improvement. By focusing on the root cause, you can identify patterns, trends, and systemic issues that may be impacting your organization or personal life. This proactive approach allows you to address the underlying causes and create lasting solutions.

Benefits of Using Root Cause Analysis

Using Root Cause Analysis offers several benefits for both individuals and organizations. Let’s explore some of the key advantages:

1. Effective Problem Solving:

RCA enables you to identify the root cause of a problem, allowing you to implement targeted and effective solutions. By addressing the underlying factors, you can eliminate the problem at its source, rather than just treating the symptoms.

2. Prevention of Recurring Issues:

By understanding the root cause, you can implement preventive measures that eliminate the likelihood of the problem recurring. This saves time, resources, and frustration in the long run.

3. Improved Decision Making:

RCA provides valuable insights that inform your decision-making process. By understanding the underlying causes, you can make more informed choices that align with your goals and objectives.

4. Enhanced Efficiency:

By addressing the root cause, you can streamline your processes and systems, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.

5. Continuous Improvement:

RCA encourages a proactive approach to problem-solving, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By consistently analyzing and addressing root causes, you can drive ongoing growth and development.

Steps to Conduct a Root Cause Analysis

Conducting a Root Cause Analysis involves a systematic approach that consists of several steps. While the specific steps may vary depending on the context and problem at hand, the following framework provides a general guideline:

1. Define the Problem:

Clearly articulate the problem or incident that you want to analyze. This step ensures that everyone involved has a shared understanding of the issue.

2. Gather Information:

Collect relevant data and information related to the problem. This may include incident reports, interviews, data analysis, and documentation. The goal is to gather as much information as possible to inform your analysis.

3. Identify Possible Causes:

Brainstorm and list all the potential causes that could have contributed to the problem. This step encourages creative thinking and ensures that you consider a wide range of possibilities.

4. Analyze Causes:

Evaluate each potential cause and determine its likelihood and impact. Use tools such as cause-and-effect diagrams, fishbone diagrams, or the 5 Whys technique to explore the relationships between causes and effects.

5. Determine the Root Cause:

Based on your analysis, identify the underlying factor or factors that are most likely responsible for the problem. This may involve further investigation and validation.

6. Develop Solutions:

Once you have identified the root cause, brainstorm and develop targeted solutions that address the underlying factors. Ensure that your solutions are practical, feasible, and aligned with your goals.

7. Implement and Monitor:

Put your solutions into action and monitor their effectiveness. This step allows you to assess whether the problem has been resolved and identify any potential issues or barriers.

8. Learn and Improve:

Reflect on the RCA process and outcomes. Identify lessons learned and areas for improvement to enhance your future problem-solving efforts.

By following these steps, you can conduct a thorough and effective Root Cause Analysis that uncovers the underlying causes of a problem and guides your decision-making process.

Tools and Techniques for Root Cause Analysis

There are various tools and techniques that can enhance your Root Cause Analysis process. Here are some commonly used ones:

1. Cause-and-Effect Diagrams:

Also known as Ishikawa or fishbone diagrams, these visual tools help you identify potential causes and explore their relationships. They provide a structured framework for brainstorming and categorizing causes into different categories, such as people, processes, equipment, environment, and materials.

2. 5 Whys Technique:

This technique involves repeatedly asking “Why?” to uncover the underlying causes of a problem. By digging deeper with each “Why?” question, you can reach the root cause.

3. Pareto Analysis:

This technique helps you prioritize the causes based on their frequency or impact. It allows you to focus on the most significant factors and allocate resources accordingly.

4. Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA):

FMEA is a systematic approach used to identify potential failure modes and their effects. It helps you anticipate and prevent problems before they occur.

5. Statistical Analysis:

Statistical tools, such as regression analysis or hypothesis testing, can be used to analyze data and identify patterns or correlations that contribute to the problem.

These tools and techniques provide valuable frameworks and methodologies for conducting a thorough Root Cause Analysis. By leveraging them effectively, you can enhance your problem-solving capabilities and uncover deeper insights.

Common Challenges in Root Cause Analysis

While Root Cause Analysis offers numerous benefits, it also presents several challenges that you may encounter during the process. Being aware of these challenges can help you navigate them effectively. Some common challenges include:

1. Complexity:

Some problems may have multiple causes and factors that interact in complex ways. Untangling this complexity requires patience, thoroughness, and a systematic approach.

2. Limited Data or Information:

Insufficient or incomplete data can hinder your analysis and make it challenging to identify the root cause. In such cases, it may be necessary to gather additional information or use alternative analytical methods.

3. Subjectivity:

Root Cause Analysis involves interpretation and judgment, which can introduce subjectivity. It’s crucial to ensure that your analysis is based on objective data and evidence, minimizing bias.

4. Time Constraints:

Conducting a thorough RCA takes time, and tight deadlines may limit your ability to explore all potential causes. In such situations, it’s important to prioritize and focus on the most significant factors.

5. Resistance to Change:

Implementing solutions based on the root cause may require changes to processes, systems, or behaviors. Resistance to change can pose challenges and require effective change management strategies.

By recognizing and addressing these challenges, you can navigate the Root Cause Analysis process more effectively and achieve more accurate results.

Real-Life Examples of Successful Root Cause Analysis

To illustrate the power of Root Cause Analysis, let’s explore some real-life examples where RCA has been successfully applied:

1. Manufacturing Industry:

A manufacturing company experienced frequent product defects, resulting in increased costs and customer complaints. By conducting an RCA, they discovered that a faulty machine component was causing the defects. They implemented a targeted solution, replacing the faulty component and improving quality control processes, resulting in a significant reduction in defects.

2. Healthcare:

A hospital noticed a high rate of patient falls and injuries. Through RCA, they identified insufficient staff training, poorly designed rooms, and inadequate patient monitoring as contributing factors. By addressing these root causes, they implemented training programs, redesigned rooms to improve patient safety, and enhanced monitoring protocols, resulting in a decrease in falls and injuries.

3. Software Development:

A software development team faced recurring software bugs and delays. RCA revealed that miscommunication and unclear requirements were causing the issues. By improving communication channels, implementing a more structured requirements gathering process, and enhancing quality assurance practices, they were able to deliver software with fewer bugs and on schedule.

These examples demonstrate the transformative impact of Root Cause Analysis. By digging deeper and uncovering the underlying causes, organizations can implement targeted solutions that address the root of the problem, resulting in improved outcomes and increased efficiency.

Implementing Solutions Based on Root Cause Analysis

Identifying the root cause is only the first step. To achieve lasting solutions, it’s crucial to implement the recommendations effectively. Here are some key considerations when implementing solutions based on Root Cause Analysis:

1. Clear Communication:

Clearly communicate the identified root cause, recommended solutions, and the rationale behind them. Ensure that all stakeholders understand the importance of addressing the root cause and the benefits of the proposed solutions.

2. Engage Relevant Stakeholders:

Involve all relevant stakeholders in the implementation process. This may include employees, management, customers, or other external partners. Engaging stakeholders fosters ownership, collaboration, and commitment to the solutions.

3. Allocate Resources:

Provide the necessary resources, such as funding, time, and expertise, to implement the solutions effectively. Consider the potential costs and benefits of the solutions and allocate resources accordingly.

4. Monitor and Evaluate:

Continuously monitor the effectiveness of the implemented solutions. Collect data, measure outcomes, and assess whether the root cause has been effectively addressed. This allows you to make necessary adjustments and ensure long-term success.

5. Promote a Learning Culture:

Encourage a learning culture within your organization or personal life. Embrace the lessons learned from Root Cause Analysis and use them to drive continuous improvement. Foster a mindset of curiosity, innovation, and adaptability.

By implementing solutions based on Root Cause Analysis effectively, you can create lasting change and improve your problem-solving capabilities.

Training and Resources for Mastering Root Cause Analysis

Mastering Root Cause Analysis requires knowledge, skills, and experience. Fortunately, there are various training programs, resources, and tools available to help you enhance your RCA capabilities. Here are some options to consider:

1. Training Programs:

Enroll in RCA training programs or workshops offered by professional organizations, universities, or consulting firms. These programs provide in-depth knowledge, practical techniques, and case studies to develop your RCA skills.

2. Certifications:

Pursue certifications in Root Cause Analysis, such as the Certified RCA Analyst (CRAA) or the Certified RCA Facilitator (CRAF). These certifications validate your expertise and enhance your professional credibility.

3. Books and Publications:

Explore books, articles, and publications on Root Cause Analysis. Authors like Ishikawa, Deming, or Ohno have made significant contributions to the field and offer valuable insights.

4. Online Resources:

Leverage online platforms, forums, and communities dedicated to Root Cause Analysis. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share experiences to learn from others in the field.

5. Internal Training and Mentoring:

If you’re part of an organization, seek internal training or mentoring opportunities. Learn from experienced colleagues or experts within your organization who have expertise in RCA.

By investing in your RCA skills and leveraging the available resources, you can become a proficient Root Cause Analyst and drive meaningful change in your personal and professional life.

Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Root Cause Analysis

In our fast-paced world, taking the time to dig deeper and understand the root causes of problems is crucial for lasting solutions. Root Cause Analysis provides a systematic and structured approach to unraveling complex issues, empowering you to address the underlying causes rather than just treating the symptoms. By mastering the art of RCA, you can transform the way you approach and solve problems, whether in your business or personal life.

Root Cause Analysis offers numerous benefits, including effective problem-solving, prevention of recurring issues, improved decision-making, enhanced efficiency, and a culture of continuous improvement. By following a systematic process and leveraging tools and techniques, you can conduct a thorough RCA and uncover deeper insights.

While Root Cause Analysis presents challenges, such as complexity, limited data, subjectivity, time constraints, and resistance to change, recognizing and addressing these challenges can help you navigate the process effectively.

Real-life examples demonstrate the power of RCA in various industries, from manufacturing to healthcare to software development. Implementing solutions based on RCA requires clear communication, stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, monitoring, and a learning culture.

To master Root Cause Analysis, explore training programs, certifications, books, online resources, and internal mentoring opportunities. By investing in your RCA skills, you can become a proficient problem-solver and drive meaningful change.

Harness the power of Root Cause Analysis and unlock the secrets to lasting solutions. Dig deeper, understand the root causes, and transform the way you approach and solve problems. Get ready to unravel complex issues and unleash the true power of RCA.

Basics

The Best 5 Planning Strategies for Startups

Planning is an important part of starting a business. It helps you set goals, prioritize tasks, and keep track of progress. Here are five essential planning strategies that will help you plan effectively.

Published

2 years ago

September 11, 2022

Dr. Mahmoud Elhalabi

A woman holding a laptop and a man holding a tablet sitting indoor and talking about a planning a startup — The Best 5 Planning Strategies for Startups

1- Identify Key Resources.

One of the first things you should do when planning your startup is identify key resources. These might include people, money, equipment, software, or other items that are needed to launch your company. You need to make sure that these resources are available before you begin building your product.

You should identify key resources such as equipment, supplies, and people who can help you. Once you know what you need, you can create a detailed plan for getting those things. For example, if you want to open a bakery, you might need to buy a mixer, baking pans, and ingredients. If you want to sell handmade jewelry, you might need to purchase a sewing machine, beads, and other materials.

2- Find Funding.

Once you have identified your resources, you will need to determine how much funding you need to build your product. This is an important decision because it will affect how quickly you can move forward with your business plan. If you have limited funds, you may need to consider alternative ways to raise capital.

According to Dave Lavinsky “The 5 Most Common Funding Sources” are:

Funding from Personal Savings. Funding from personal savings is the most common type of funding for small businesses.
Business Loans.
Friends & Family.
Angel Investors.

Angel investors are generally wealthy individuals like friends and family members; you just don’t know them (yet). At present, there are about 250,000 private angel investors in the United States that fund more than 30,000 small businesses each year. Therefore, Networking is a great way to find an angel investor for your business.

Venture Capital.

Venture capitalists and VC firms are professional investors that are more involved with business management, and they play a significant role in setting milestones, targets, and giving advice on how to ensure greater success.

3- Create a Business Plan.

A business plan is a document that outlines your goals, objectives, and strategy for building your company. It should also contain financial projections and other key metrics that will help you measure your success.

The first step in creating a business plan is deciding what kind of business you want to start. You should think about whether you want to be a sole proprietor, work for yourself, or join a company. If you decide to go into business on your own, you’ll need to create a business plan. A business plan is a document that outlines your business idea, describes your products and services, explains how you’re going to market them, and shows how much capital you’ll need to get started.

For example, if you want to launch a new product line, you might decide to create a prototype, conduct market research, and develop a marketing strategy.

Once you have identified each step, you can determine how much time and resources you will need to complete each task. However, if you hire employees, you will need to establish job descriptions, interview potential candidates, and train them.

*Find out how to manage unplanned and sudden tasks like a master: How to manage Unplanned and Sudden Tasks like a master? – SKILLTECS

4- Build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).

MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is a prototype of your product that you build first before launching your full product. This allows you to test out your idea with real users and gather feedback before investing too much money into developing your product.

An MVP is a version of your idea that is ready to be tested. You should test it before investing too much time into building something bigger than what you want to accomplish. Once you have built your MVP, you can use it to determine whether you should invest more time and resources into developing your idea further.

If you find that your MVP isn’t working, then you know that there’s a problem with your idea.

5- Identify Your Market Niche.

Once you have an idea for what you want to build, you need to identify who will use your product. You should consider the following questions when determining your market niche: What problem does your product solve? Who is your ideal customer? How do you plan to reach them?

One of the basic steps in planning is identifying your market niche. What type of products or services do you want to offer? Do you want to sell online or offline? Are you looking to start a home-based business or work from a brick-and-mortar location? Once you know what you want to offer, you can determine whether you should focus on one product or service or multiple ones.

You might decide to specialize in selling one particular item, such as a certain brand of clothing or a specific kind of jewelry. Or you could choose to offer several different items, such as a line of handbags or a variety of greeting cards.

*Learn more about planning here: All You Need to Know About Planning – YouTube

Basics

Can Effective Leadership Actually Be Taught? Four Myths About Leadership

Effective leaders must possess a set of skills that allow them to motivate others, communicate effectively, and manage conflict. These traits cannot be learned in a classroom setting, but rather must be developed through experience.

Published

2 years ago

September 10, 2022

Dr. Mahmoud Elhalabi

A paper boat leading other boats as an illustration of effective leadership — Can Effective Leadership Actually Be Taught?

We will also look at some of the most common myths about leadership.

There are several myths surrounding what makes an effective leader. One popular myth is that effective leaders are born with certain qualities. While there are certainly people who were born with these characteristics, the truth is that no one has been born with any particular trait. Instead, effective leaders develop their skills throughout their lives.

First myth: Leadership is often defined as having power over other people.

But true leaders are those who use their influence to help others succeed. In order to become an effective leader, one must first understand what makes a person a leader. A leader is someone who has the ability to motivate others, communicate well, and resolve conflicts. The best leaders are able to develop these qualities throughout their lives.

Second myth: Leadership is something that can be taught.

The second myth we will debunk is that leadership is something that can be taught. In fact, there are many people who believe that leadership is simply a skill that can be learned. However, according to Dr. John C. Maxwell, leadership is much more than a skill. He states that leadership is a mindset that allows one to influence and lead others. Leadership is not something that can be taught; it is something that must be cultivated.

The best leaders are those who understand that people are motivated by different things. Some want recognition, while others want to feel valued. Some want to be challenged, while others want to be coddled. And some want to be told what to do, while others want to lead.

Effective leaders are those who know what they want and then go after it. They are able to identify problems and opportunities and take action to solve them. They are able to lead people towards goals and away from distractions. And they are able to work well with other people.

Third myth: There is only one way to be an effective leader.

In fact, there are many ways to lead, and each leader has his or her own style. Some people are natural born leaders, while others learn from watching those who came before them. Regardless of whether one is naturally inclined toward leading, however, there are certain skills that every leader should master.

Fourth myth: Leadership is something innate.

In fact, leadership is a skill that can be learned. Leadership is not a natural talent; it is a learned behavior. As such, there are many ways to develop leadership skills. One of the best ways to learn leadership skills is to observe those who already possess them. Leaders often model their behaviors after successful people. By observing what makes these individuals effective, we can learn from their actions.