What is the best way to prioritize and sequence analysis of a complex problem?

These problems are being solved for clients. And more often than not even after setting the boundaries & criteria, the clients have impromptu requests that may come up during execution. Anticipating these requests & the limits to accommodate also need to be pre-defined, internally, as client satisfaction is the most important outcome for bagging repeat business.

After clearly defining the problem address the management processes involved/ contributed to this problem. Now analyze those processes with documented Process Maps ( QMS requirement). Process Maps should include Process Owner/ team members Process Stream Process inputs Inputs from Outputs Outputs to QMS formats/ work instructions used in this process Process Measurables/ KPI s Now do the thorough Audit on the Processes involved Analysis and Actions for the Non conformation/ deviations involved. Corrective Actions will improve the Effectiveness/ Efficiency of the Processes thereby solving the Problem Permanently.

Consider Tesla's entry into the auto market with electric vehicles. Their challenge? Gaining acceptance in a gasoline-dominated world. Tesla clearly defined this problem, focusing on consumer perception and infrastructure. By pinpointing these areas, they strategically developed their Supercharger network and customer outreach. Just as a doctor diagnoses before treating, in consulting, clear problem definition guides effective solutions.

Having a thoughtful approach is critical. > reframe it into a focused question to guide analysis > look for patterns and groupings > interconnections between variables to reveal higher order issues vs isolated symptoms > key metrics that will indicate the economic or operational impact of the problem & pain points > what factors are more readily influenced in the short term vs. long term > investigating variables that have the highest causal relationships or correlation with other factors > 20% of variables drive 80% of problem impacts > anchor in data first stay nimble but maintain a structured framework to attack complexity with efficiency and purpose; complexity inspires pragmatism, not paralysis!

Think of solving a business problem like assembling a jigsaw puzzle. Before solving, you categorize pieces by edges, colors, or patterns. For example, Apple launching its first iPhone faced a problem: How to dominate an existing mobile market? They broke this problem into components: Consumer needs (touchscreen usability, integrated apps). Tech constraints (battery life, connectivity). Market positioning (branding, price). By dissecting the problem, Apple could address each aspect distinctly, leading to a revolutionary product. Just like in jigsaw puzzles, tackling one piece at a time makes the complex picture clearer.

While we prioritize problem components, we can also try to combine them, if their impacts or perceived resolution mechanisms are similar. This allows the resolution or mitigation process to be simpler.

Consider Starbucks' goal to boost store profitability. They would logically evaluate factors like product pricing, foot traffic, and store expenses. Recognizing interdependence, they'd study the effect of pricing adjustments on sales volume or how changes in foot traffic influence staffing. Using a roadmap, Starbucks might first tweak their pricing strategy, next evaluate its influence on foot traffic, and lastly adjust staffing. Like constructing a building, the foundation (pricing) is set first, followed by walls (traffic), and then the roof (staffing). This sequencing ensures a stable strategy.

Consider Nike contemplating a sustainable shoe line. After thorough analysis, there's evidence of rising eco-conscious consumer behavior. A consultant might start with the headline: "Sustainable Shoes" Tapping into the Green Consumer Trend." This would be supported by a graph showing increasing searches for "eco-friendly sports shoes" over the years, alongside customer surveys indicating a willingness to pay more for sustainable products. This clear presentation; headline, supportive evidence, and compelling visuals, crystallizes the recommendation, showcasing the consultant's expertise and reinforcing their credibility.

From what I've seen, one way to figure out how to deal with a complicated problem is to use a method that breaks it down into smaller questions. Then, you come up with both usual and creative solutions, and you organize them in a table. After that, you calculate some combinations and pick a few. Next, you analyze these solutions to see how they affect the problem and how easy they are to put into action. Lastly, it's super important to explain your findings clearly.