Creativity and Innovation: Week 58

CLARIFY THE REAL PROBLEM

Learn
Although we may be able to recognize a problem it is important to drill further to clarify the real problem. In this step, we need to have a clear description of the problem, one that is careful to separate symptoms from the real problem.

Unlearn
Recognizing a problem is easy. However clarifying the “REAL” problem is a bit challenging and yet very important in ensuring the successful solving of a problem.

Relearn
Clarifying the “REAL” problem could be done by the following techniques.

1. THE 5 “WHY’S” TECHNIQUE
It is simple drill down method by asking the question WHY five times to ensure we derive the actual underlying problem or the root causes of the problem

2. GATHER INFORMATION: LOOK FOR PATTERNS
This method simply involved gathering of available information and organizing the data to look for particular pattern or commonalities.

3. STATING THE PROBLEM IN FIVE DIFFERENT WAYS
This method allows you to view the problem in different angles to ensure we have better perspectives of the actual underlying problem.