I recently understood the importance of reframing the problem before looking into solutions. It helps in creating simple, effective and economical solution in far shorter time.
Image Source: HBR
Here are Seven practices for effective reframing of problem in few minutes that I learnt from the HBR article:
- Establish legitimacy: It’s difficult to use reframing if you are the only person in the room who understands the matter. Share this article with your team https://hbr.org/2017/01/are-you-solving-the-right-problems
- Bring outsiders into the discussion: Someone who works with your team but not part of it. They will think differently and challenge the group’s thinking.
- People’s definition in writing: This helps in ensuring everyone have the same view and understanding of the problem.
- Ask what’s missing: This ensures the description of problem is accurate and complete.
- Consider multiple categories: Invite people to identify specifically what category of problem they think the group is facing.
- Analyze positive exceptions: Look to instances when the problem did not Occur, asking, what was different about that situation?
- Question the objective: Reframe by paying explicit attention to the objectives of the parties involved first clarifying and then challenging them.
