Jawn Lam

Framing the Situation

Problem Solving & Decision MakingEssay2 min read

Usually, we are trained to think analytically in a way that views problems as separate entities. Yet, in our increasingly interconnected world, problems are rarely isolated; instead, they exist on a continuous spectrum that is constantly evolving. This set of questions offers a broader perspective on where the problem lies, ensuring that the solutions developed benefit the entire situation.

When you are working a business problem, it's crucial to cultivate a mindset that looks beyond traditional analytical thinking, which often isolates problems. Keep the following key concepts in mind as you select which questions to address:

  1. Understanding Interconnectedness. Start from the interconnected nature of modern business problems. Issues in one area can impact others, necessitating a holistic view.
  2. Identifying the Continuum. Recognize that problems are part of a continuum. See issues not as static but as evolving entities within a more extensive system.
  3. Broadening Perspectives. Work through exercises that encourage thinking from multiple perspectives. Case studies demonstrate how viewing problems in a broader context can lead to more effective solutions.
  4. Evolving Problem-Solving Approaches. Use adaptive problem-solving strategies that evolve as the situation changes. Keep flexibility and agility in thinking.
  5. Systemic Impact Analysis. Analyze how solutions might affect various parts of the organization and beyond, including stakeholders, customers, and the market.
  6. Encouraging Collaboration. Use collaborative approaches in understanding and solving interconnected problems. Promote cross-functional teamwork.
  7. Developing Forward-Thinking Solutions. Develop solutions that address the immediate problem and consider future implications and potential changes.
  8. Using Scenario Planning. Use scenario planning exercises to anticipate different solutions in a dynamic, interconnected environment.
  9. Building Resilience and Adaptability. Focus on building resilience and adaptability in problem-solving, enabling you to respond effectively to unforeseen changes and challenges.

Working with these concepts builds the skills and mindset needed to tackle modern, interconnected problems effectively, ensuring solutions are comprehensive and beneficial for the entire organization and its environment.

The questions

Be judicious in asking questions; too many can be counterproductive.

The questions for framing the situation

Seventy-six 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
Three questions drawn at random will show here.
  1. What would be the impact on the organization's reputation depending on how this situation is handled?
  2. What would be the impact on the organization's reputation depending on how this situation is handled?
  3. What would be the impact on the organization's reputation depending on how this situation is handled?

Exploratory Assessment

In this group, the aim is to explore the situation in depth, focusing on understanding not just the immediate problem but its broader context. Questions should guide the problem-solver to uncover the nature of the issue, its impact, and the various systemic factors at play. This approach involves drawing a comprehensive picture of the problem, including its origins, evolution, and how it fits into a more extensive system or pattern. The insights derived here are crucial for framing the problem in a way that captures its complexity and interconnectedness.

Practicable Analysis

Questions in this category focus on the practical and operational aspects of the situation, which are vital for framing it in a realistic and actionable manner. This includes identifying immediate concerns, key stakeholders, potential constraints, and realistic goals. The emphasis is on gathering information that helps frame the problem in a way that is tangible and grounded in the current operational reality of the organization. This analysis is critical to developing a frame that acknowledges the practical limits and opportunities for developing and implementing solutions.

Critical Evaluation

In this group, the questions are intended to critically evaluate the situation's broader context and future implications. This is about looking beyond the immediate problem to understand its potential long-term effects, underlying motivations, and any biases that might influence perception and decision-making. This critical evaluation is essential for framing the problem in a way that is not only sustainable and ethically sound but also aligned with the organization's future goals and the evolving business environment. The frame developed through this process should guide toward durable solutions and consider broader implications.

Tools for this step

  • Perspective Pivot Workshop reframes the problem along nine dimensions, each a different lens, to check that the right problem is the one being addressed.

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