You’re struggling to solve a complex problem. What are the most important tools you need?

When grappling with a complex problem, the foremost tool is defining the problem itself. Clearly articulate the issue, breaking it down into manageable components. This foundational step fosters a comprehensive understanding, enabling effective collaboration and strategic planning. Defining the problem serves as the cornerstone for developing targeted and innovative solutions.

Defining the problem is naturally an important place to start, and I've found that it continues to be important particularly when tackling a complex environment where a solution won't be delivered overnight. Things change and if you're not careful, you'll solve a problem that in some way no longer exists. So, getting the stake in the ground as to what you're solving for is necessary, just make sure it retains relevance throughout the project.

When grappling with a complex problem, a crucial tool is research. Dive deep into the issue, seeking diverse perspectives and relevant information. Utilize academic papers, industry reports, and expert insights to gain a comprehensive understanding. Informed research empowers effective problem-solving, laying the groundwork for well-informed solutions.

Work to understand the environment, the trends and the new technologies that could change the game. If someone tells you "no one ever did this before" that's a red flag. There aren't very many problems for which no solution exists, and those generally are associated with Nobel Prizes. Your goal should be to find out how to stand on the shoulders of others to deliver a better solution, not pretend like none other exists or believe that it has to be your original thought.

crucial tools include a diverse team for varied perspectives, a structured approach to break down the problem, and creative ideation techniques like brainstorming. Combine critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity to generate innovative solutions, fostering a comprehensive and effective problem-solving strategy.

To evaluate options and then identify the solution it's important to create a scoring model that considers the benefits and weaknesses of all of the attributes of each solution. Using a scoring model allows you to consider the options by one facet at a time. It's really the only way to objectively assess multiple solutions to a complex problem. The winning solution may not be the final direction you go in, but the process will force you to think about what's important in a way that otherwise would be lost in the detail.

Grit, time, and collaborators are the most important tools for problem solving. When confronted with a problem if you are unrelenting in pursuit of a solution, you will find one. I find it best to apply maximum effort to finding the solution for a set period of time, then set the problem down. Pick it back up the next day and again apply maximum effort. If still unresolved, reach out to someone who you think could help you solve and ask for their help.

In the words of Walt Whitman - "No problem can withstand the assault of sustained thought." but be sure to you don't take too long to admire the problem before taking action. And, when you do, engage and involve the beneficiaries of the effort whenever possible. And have check points and progress communication to ensure keep others engaged and the project moving toward the goal.