The, Decision Maker's Playbook



Chapter Zero

What’s your problem?

A problem well put is half solved.

John Dewey

FRAME YOUR PROBLEM FIRST

Before we can start pondering potential solutions, we need to familiarise ourselves with what a problem actually is. Let’s use the working definition: a problem is a question in search of an answer or a solution. Here is what’s typically not recognised: asking good questions is paramount for good problem-solving. In other words, problem-framing is part of problem-solving.

That is why this book purposely has a Chapter Zero. Often, when confronted with a new dilemma or opportunity, our instinct is to dive in – to start gathering data, forming hypotheses, marshalling resources or testing solutions. All of these ...