Which step should a team take to identify the main problem effectively?

Identifying the root cause is crucial for effectively solving problems within a team. This step ensures that the team does not merely address symptoms of a problem, but rather focuses on the underlying issue that is contributing to it. By identifying the root cause, the team can develop targeted strategies to resolve the issue and prevent it from recurring in the future.

In problem-solving methodologies, such as root cause analysis, the process often involves questioning the observed problem to dig deeper into what is actually causing it. This in-depth exploration leads to more sustainable solutions because it addresses the foundational reasons behind the problem.

Other approaches, such as analyzing financial reports or gathering employee feedback, may provide valuable information, but they do not directly pinpoint the main problem itself. While these methods can yield insights that contribute to understanding the problem's context, they do not specifically focus on identifying what the root issue is. Looking for opportunities might help in generating ideas to improve performance or processes, but it also does not specifically tackle the identification of the primary problem. Thus, identifying the root cause remains the most effective initial step for resolving issues within a team.