This is what I do. Whenever I or someone I work with has a problem we must answer four questions before we do anything or go to anyone about it:

1. What is the problem?
2. What is the cause of the problem?
3. What is a list of possible solutions?
4. What solution do you recommend?

By the time people get to the last question, the problem is usually solved. This came from a Dale Carnegie book. You could copy it down and give it to every team member you work with before you start on anything. I hope you find it helpful. I did.