A solution framing approach typically involves these key steps:
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Define the Problem: Clearly articulate the problem. Analyze its context within the relevant system or process. This involves understanding the root cause, not just the symptoms. For example, instead of saying "sales are down," a more precise definition might be "sales of product X are down 15% year-over-year due to increased competition and a lack of effective marketing."
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Prioritize the Problem: Determine the problem's importance and urgency. Consider factors like impact, feasibility of solution, and available resources. Not all problems require immediate attention; prioritize based on strategic goals.
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Understand the Problem: Conduct thorough research to gain a deep understanding of the problem's nuances. Gather data, conduct interviews, and analyze existing information to identify contributing factors and potential stakeholders.
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Approve the Solution: Once a potential solution is identified, get buy-in from relevant stakeholders. This ensures alignment and commitment to implementing the chosen solution.
These steps, consistent across various sources, provide a structured approach to tackling problems effectively. The focus is on a thorough understanding of the problem before jumping to solutions. This minimizes the risk of implementing ineffective or inappropriate solutions. Other sources mention brainstorming and ideation as additional steps which can occur after the problem is clearly defined and understood. Framing the problem in this manner ensures that the solution addresses the core issue, maximizing the chances of success.
