I come from a background where problems are big, hairy, obvious things that need to be fixed with a hammer. I was brought in only when a problem was obvious and fundamental. A solution that solved it would be both noticeable and verifiable. Recognition is often part of solving the big, hairy problems.
Less sexy are the deep-rooted problems lurking in the heart of an organization. Usually, these are problems that cause inconvenience. The solutions to these problems can often involve a lot of visibility and pain before they take hold. Much like an early-stage tumor, these problems are not yet causing real issues but if left to linger they can lead to massive issues down the road.
When the solution will cause more pain than the current problem, the can is often kicked down the road. The problem continues to linger and fester, waiting for its opportunity to strike.
It turns out, the pain of solving it today is less than the pain of waiting for the issue to become significant. However, the political calculus usually works out where a manager decides not to deal with it yet. Let it be someone else’s problem. The permanent record only includes actions, it rarely includes problems untouched for the next person.
I hope I never let things sit for the next person. It is better to deal with things than wait around. The game of Duck, Duck, Goose always catches someone. There’s still a chance it could be you even if you wait.