The first step in problem-solving is to create a brief background description of the present situation or problem. This description aids in comprehending the characteristics, extent, and possible effects of the situation. It should highlight the unique aspects of the situation to prevent relying on generic solutions.
When addressing complex business problems, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of the situation at hand. A structured approach to defining the problem can lead to more effective and tailored solutions. This can be achieved by using questions to guide the writing of a concise background description. Keep the following key concepts in mind as you select which questions to address:
- Identify Key Facets of the Situation. Use the questions to uncover the essential elements of the current situation or problem. Questions should explore the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the situation. This helps in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the problem.
- Assess the Scope and Impact. Evaluate the extent of the problem and its potential impact on different areas of the business. Understand how it affects various stakeholders, processes, and the organization's goals. This assessment helps in prioritizing the issue and planning an appropriate response.
- Highlight Uniqueness. Focus on identifying what makes this situation unique. Understanding the specific characteristics that differentiate this problem from others prevents falling into the trap of applying generic, "one-size-fits-all" solutions. This encourages more creative and effective problem-solving.
- Write a Concise Background Description. Based on the insights gained, write a brief background description of the problem. This description should be clear, focused, and encompass all critical aspects identified. It serves as a reference point for the problem-solving process, ensuring that all discussions and solutions are relevant and targeted.
- Encourage Broad Participation. Encourage participation from everyone working on the problem. Diverse perspectives can add depth to the problem understanding and contribute to more innovative solutions.
This approach ensures that the problem is thoroughly understood before jumping into solutions. By focusing on a clear, concise background description shaped by these questions, managers can approach problem-solving with a more strategic and effective mindset, leading to innovative solutions closely aligned with the unique aspects of the problem.
The questions
Be judicious in asking questions; too many can be counterproductive.
The questions for describing the situation
Eighty questions in three groups. Tick the ones that fit your problem, then copy them, or let the figure pick three to start with.
1 question picked0 questions picked
CopiedCould not copy- What would be the impact on stakeholder trust and relationships if the situation is not adequately addressed?
- What would be the impact on stakeholder trust and relationships if the situation is not adequately addressed?
- What would be the impact on stakeholder trust and relationships if the situation is not adequately addressed?
Exploratory Assessment
In this group, the focus is on thoroughly examining the situation to create a detailed background description. Questions are designed to help understand the unique nature of the problem, its scale, and the various systemic factors at play. This investigative approach aims to unearth the situation's underlying dimensions. The goal is to craft a narrative that captures the essence of the problem, highlighting its distinct characteristics and setting the stage for tailored solutions.
Practicable Analysis
Questions in this group are centered on the operational context of the situation, aiding in the development of a pragmatic background description. They explore the immediate realities and practicalities of the situation, such as identifying key players, understanding existing limitations, and outlining the scope of what can be realistically achieved. This analysis is critical for painting a clear picture of the current state of affairs, providing a grounded basis for subsequent problem-solving steps.
Critical Evaluation
In this category, the emphasis is on critically appraising the situation to enhance the background description. Questions guide the problem-solver in considering the broader context and future implications of the situation. This involves probing into the deeper motivations, potential biases, and possible long-term outcomes of the current scenario. The aim is to ensure that the description of the situation is comprehensive and forward-looking, taking into account the sustainability and ethical dimensions, as well as its alignment with the organization's future trajectory.
Tools for this step
- Context Clarity Navigator sorts the situation into a problem that needs direct action, an issue that needs understanding and agreement, or an opportunity to seize.
- Blueprint Optimization Framework takes a core idea through its pros and cons to a feasibility checkpoint, where you decide to proceed or reconsider.
- Critical Question Mapping brainstorms questions instead of ideas, then sorts and ranks them to find the few that matter most for this situation.
More from the inventory:
- Customer Journey Mapping (Stickdorn, Schneider, and Shostack)
- Back of the Napkin (Roam)
- Concept Map (Novak)
- Johari Window (Luft and Ingham)
- Phenomenological Analysis (Husserl, Merleau-Ponty, and Giorgi)
Where the situation turns on who gains and who loses inside the organization, The Lam System for Political Interaction maps it.