Is your problem the real issue?

Don’t race to the wrong solution.

We’re navigating a complex time. The rapid evolution of AI, the shifting political landscape, and economic uncertainty are introducing new and unimagined challenges. 

In the face of uncertainty, analysis paralysis can leave us stuck in our tracks while a well-intentioned bias to action can drive us quickly in the wrong direction. A problem that seems obvious and immediate is likely the symptom of an even bigger issue.

Consider the following to conquer your next seemingly insurmountable challenge.

Adequately frame the problem.

Planning can feel like a luxury when an emerging issue arises. However, a level-headed assessment is the essential starting point. A well-articulated problem statement will clearly define the issue, who is impacted, the gap to reaching the desired outcome, and the ultimate end goal.

“If I had an hour to solve a problem and my life depended on the solution, I would spend the first 55 minutes determining the proper question to ask… for once I know the proper question, I could solve the problem in less than five minutes.” – Albert Einstein

Avoid the solution fixation trap.

Pressing issues can put teams in react mode, rallying around the most obvious solution and driving what’s been coined as the ‘solution fixation trap.’ Separate goals from tactics to ensure you’re working towards a clearly defined goal that addresses the established problem.

Accept that solutions aren’t zero-sum.

The 5 Whys for Root Cause Analysis lead to underlying issues. The bigger an issue, the more likely multiple solutions are needed to achieve the desired outcome. Consideration should be given to which solution leads to the most immediate impact while an issue won’t be fully resolved until every solution is implemented.

Don’t race to the wrong solution. Take time to adequately frame your next problem. Avoid the solution fixation trap. Accept that solutions aren’t zero-sum.

The obvious probably isn’t the answer.