Separate Capacity Problems From Capability Problems
Diagnose whether a performance issue is primarily a capacity problem, a capability problem, or both.
A people problem becomes strategic when you identify the mechanism, not just the symptom. Capacity and capability often travel together, which is why leaders confuse them. Burned-out managers may also have weak prioritization skill. New hires may struggle because onboarding is poor and workloads are unrealistic. The HRBP’s job is to separate what is mainly a load issue from what is mainly a skill issue so the intervention fits reality. Capacity asks whether the system can absorb the work Look for volume spikes, excessive spans, vacancy drag, too many simultaneous priorities, handoff delays, and time-to-productivity gaps. These signals suggest the…
Sign up free — one personalized lesson every day, matched to your role and goals.
Already have an account? Sign in