How do you simplify your problem structure without ignoring important details?

1 Use a clear and logical framework

A framework is a tool that helps you organize your problem structure into categories, dimensions, or elements that are relevant to your objective and scope. A framework can be based on existing models, such as Porter's Five Forces, SWOT analysis, or the 4Ps of marketing, or it can be customized to fit your specific case. A framework should be clear and logical, meaning that it should have a clear rationale, cover all the main aspects of the problem, and avoid overlaps or gaps. A framework should also be flexible and adaptable, meaning that it should allow you to modify or refine it as you gather more information or encounter new challenges.

2 Prioritize the most important factors

Once you have a framework, you need to prioritize the most important factors that influence your problem and solution. Prioritization helps you focus on the areas that have the most impact, relevance, or urgency, and avoid wasting time or resources on less critical or peripheral issues. Prioritization can be done using various criteria, such as data availability, client preferences, industry trends, or competitive advantage. Prioritization can also be done using various methods, such as ranking, scoring, weighting, or filtering. The key is to be transparent and consistent about your criteria and methods, and to explain your rationale and assumptions.

3 Break down complex problems into manageable parts

Sometimes, you may encounter problems that are too complex or ambiguous to be solved with a single framework or a simple prioritization. In these cases, you need to break down the problem into manageable parts that can be tackled separately or sequentially. Breaking down complex problems can be done using various techniques, such as issue trees, hypothesis testing, MECE (mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive), or SCQ (situation, complication, question). The goal is to decompose the problem into smaller and more specific subproblems that can be solved with more clarity and confidence.

4 Synthesize and communicate your findings and recommendations

After you have simplified your problem structure and solved the subproblems, you need to synthesize and communicate your findings and recommendations to your client or stakeholders. Synthesis and communication are essential to ensure that your work is understood, appreciated, and implemented. Synthesis and communication can be done using various formats, such as slides, reports, memos, or presentations. The key is to use a clear and compelling structure, such as the pyramid principle, the story arc, or the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method. The key is also to use effective visual aids, such as charts, graphs, tables, or diagrams, to highlight your key messages and insights.

5 Validate and refine your problem structure

Finally, you need to validate and refine your problem structure throughout the problem-solving process. Validation and refinement are important to ensure that your problem structure is accurate, relevant, and comprehensive, and that it reflects the reality and the needs of the situation. Validation and refinement can be done using various sources, such as data, feedback, benchmarks, or best practices. The key is to be open and curious, and to seek out different perspectives and opinions. The key is also to be humble and flexible, and to admit and correct your mistakes or gaps.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?