In a perfect world, you would have the freedom to identify a problem, brainstorm a solution and implement changes without needing the support and buy-in of your colleagues. Few of us, though, have that luxury. And in a post at the Thingnamer blog, Tate Linden gives his best advice for navigating an inherently tricky task.

Never start the process by proposing a solution. "First," says Linden, "decision makers and influencers must agree on the nature and importance of the problem."

Establish a definition of success. Once you reach agreement on the problem to be solved, select the criteria against which each proposal will be measured and judged.

Open channels of communication. Create channels for two-way dialogue with all colleagues who hold veto power over any aspect of your project.

Make an either/or decision your goal. When voting, he recommends, ask for yes/no replies.

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