Last updated on Mar 23, 2024

What do you do if your team members struggle with delegated tasks in application development?

In application development, the success of a project often hinges on effective delegation. But what happens when team members falter with the tasks they've been assigned? It's a common scenario that can lead to delays, frustration, and subpar work. The key to navigating this challenge lies in identifying the root of the problem and taking proactive steps to address it. Whether it's through open communication, additional training, or restructuring the team dynamic, there are strategies you can employ to get your project back on track.

1 Assess Skills

When a team member struggles with a delegated task, first ensure they possess the necessary skills. In application development, tasks range from simple bug fixes to complex algorithm design, and not every developer excels in all areas. You should evaluate their past performance and expertise to determine if the task aligns with their skill set. If there's a mismatch, consider offering additional training or reassigning the task to someone more suited to it. Remember, it's about finding the right person for the job, not forcing a square peg into a round hole.

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Hassan Ali

iOS | MacOS | Swift | Architecting Mobile Engineering
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I start with inquiring what was your task followed by what you did to achieve that task. If the team is junior then most of the time it gets resolved by iterating eith them the steps of execution. But If they dont find the answer then I jump in with them and unlock the next step until the steps of execution are clear to them.

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2 Open Dialogue

Establishing open communication is crucial when addressing difficulties in task completion. Encourage your team members to voice their concerns and challenges without fear of reprisal. This dialogue can provide insights into why they are struggling, whether it's due to unclear requirements, lack of resources, or personal obstacles. By understanding their perspective, you can collaboratively work towards a solution that enables them to perform more effectively and ensures the project's progress.

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3 Provide Support

Supporting your team is essential when they encounter roadblocks. This might involve mentoring, pairing them with a more experienced developer, or providing access to better development tools. It's important to foster an environment where asking for help is seen as a strength, not a weakness. By showing that you're invested in their success, you'll build a stronger, more resilient development team capable of overcoming any challenge.

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4 Adjust Workload

Sometimes, the issue isn't with the task itself but with an overwhelming workload. In such cases, it's important to reassess and adjust the distribution of tasks among your team members. This may involve redistributing tasks to balance the workload more evenly or setting more realistic deadlines. Ensuring that each team member has a manageable workload is key to maintaining high productivity and morale.

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5 Re-evaluate Goals

If your team consistently struggles with delegated tasks, it may be time to re-evaluate your project goals and timelines. Unrealistic expectations can demotivate and overwhelm even the most skilled developers. Sit down with your team to discuss what's achievable within the given constraints and adjust your project plan accordingly. This collaborative approach not only alleviates pressure but also promotes a sense of ownership and commitment to the project's success.

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6 Reflect on Leadership

Finally, reflect on your own leadership style. Are you clearly communicating expectations and providing the necessary guidance? It's possible that your approach to delegation might need refinement. Consider whether you're giving enough context for tasks, setting clear priorities, and offering constructive feedback. Effective leadership adapts to the needs of the team and fosters an environment where everyone can excel in their delegated tasks.

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Mohsin Naeem

CEO Techtiz -Disruptive mobile apps
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The developer delegation dilemmas are real (and frustrating). Here's my tip: Grab a whiteboard (or virtual one!) and have a team huddle. Discuss skill gaps, identify the "why" behind the struggle, and brainstorm solutions together. Empower them, don't micromanage. It takes time, but there's nothing more rewarding than seeing your team build capabilities to tackle challenges hands-on!

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if your team members struggle with delegated tasks in application development?

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1 Assess Skills

2 Open Dialogue

3 Provide Support

4 Adjust Workload

5 Re-evaluate Goals

6 Reflect on Leadership

7 Here’s what else to consider

Application Development

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